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Arguments in Opposition to the Death Penalty, 2002.
An analysis and examination of capital punishment from an anti-death penalty viewpoint.
1,300 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 24 sources, MLA, AU$ 70.95
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Abstract
The writer claims that concretely and in practice, compelling arguments against capital punishment ought to be made on the basis of its actual administration in our society. The paper discusses the history of the death penalty and brings forward arguments in opposition to capital punishment.
From the Paper
"Another argument set forth by opponents of capital punishment is that it is ethically and morally wrong, particularly since "there continue to be many instances of innocent people being sentenced to death." (Tabak 38). In recent years, there have been numerous high profile death penalty cases in which the defendant was arguably represented by ineffective counsel. As one scholar noted, "[a]ttorneys appointed to represent indigent capital defendants frequently lack the qualities necessary to provide a competent defense and sometimes have exhibited such poor character that they have subsequently been disbarred." (Taback 37). By contrast, the state is "aided by the police, other law enforcement agencies, crime labs, state mental hospitals, and various other scientific resources, and prosecutors who are experienced in successfully handling capital cases, compulsory process, and grand juries." (Taback 37)."
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Arguments in Opposition to the Death Penalty, 2002.
This paper analyzes and examines capital punishment from an anti-death penalty perspective.
1,780 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 16 sources, MLA, AU$ 92.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the ways in which Capital punishment has been imposed throughout history. It discusses traditional historical methods of execution and the abolition and reinstatement of capital punishment. The writer draws on arguments and evidence against the alleged deterrent effects of capital punishment, the financial costs and the ineffectiveness of lawyers representing capital defendants as well as the lack of judges who are truly impartial towards capital defendants.
From the Paper
?Capital punishment has been imposed throughout history for numerous crimes, including blasphemy, murder, petty theft, and treason. Ancient societies that accepted the notion that particular crimes deserved capital punishment include the ancient Assyrians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. In addition, both Jesus and Socrates were executed. Likewise, Britain brought the death penalty and brought it to the United States.Traditional historical methods of execution included: (1) beheading or decapitation; (2) breaking on the wheel; (3) burning; (4) crucifixion; (5) drawing and quartering; (6) garroting; (7) hanging; (8) peine forte et dure; (9) shooting; and (10) stoning. Such forms of capital punishment are now regarded today as barbaric, cruel and unusual, ghastly, and unthinkable. In the United States, the death penalty is now carried out in one of five ways: (1) electrocution; (2) firing squad (rarely used, yet the law remains on the books in certain states); (3) gas chamber; (4) hanging; and (5) lethal injection. The two most commonly accepted and implemented forms of capital punishment are the gas chamber or lethal injection.?
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Arguments in Support of the Death Penalty, 2002.
This paper analyzes and examines capital punishment from a pro-death penalty viewpoint.
850 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 11 sources, APA, AU$ 49.95
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Abstract
The following paper examines arguments around the issue of the death penalty which involve cultural, economic, environmental, ethical, legal, moral, philosophical, political, practical, religious, social and sociological theories.
From the Paper
"Traditional historical methods of execution included: (1) beheading or decapitation; (2) breaking on the wheel; (3) burning; (4) crucifixion; (5) drawing and quartering; (6) garroting; (7) hanging; (8) peine forte et dure; (8) shooting; and (9) stoning. Such forms of capital punishment are now regarded today as barbaric, cruel and unusual, ghastly, and unthinkable. In the United States, the death penalty is now carried out in one of five ways: (1) electrocution; (2) firing squad (rarely used, yet the law remains on the books in certain states); (3) gas chamber; (4) hanging; and (5) lethal injection. The two most commonly accepted and implemented forms of capital punishment are the gas chamber or lethal injection."
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The Death Penalty: Analyzing Arguments, 2005.
A discussion regarding capital punishment and the death penalty.
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 3 sources, AU$ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the controversial issue of capital punishment. This paper does so by reviewing and comparing two books, each imparting with a different school of thought. The first book is Koch's "Death and Justice: How Capital Punishment Affirms Life" and the second book is Bruck's "The Death Penalty.
From the Paper
"Capital punishment is a predominant issue in modern American society, ranking high in the public consciousness with other issues like abortion and gay marriage. However, determining which camp has the better argument - either for or against capital punishment - can be difficult. We are aided in that endeavor by a dearth of literature on the subject, some of which is logical and reasoned and others that are merely passionate tirades. Two such works are Koch's "Death and Justice: How Capital Punishment Affirms Life" and Bruck's "The Death Penalty." The former comes down in favor of the capital punishment, while the latter does not. No matter my own assessment of the matter, it is evident that Bruck makes the more reasonable and logical argument when contrasted with Koch. First, let's consider Koch's argument. He argues that capital punishment is necessary for a variety of reasons.:
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Death Penalty Argument, 2006.
Presents arguments against the use of the death penalty.
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 2 sources, AU$ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper argues against the death penalty, noting that the death penalty has been a part of American law for a long time, removed completely only for a period of time after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled it was poorly conceived in the law in 1972, but many states rewrote their statutes and re-instituted the death penalty, often in response to public fears about violent crime. The death penalty is often raised as a solution during periods of high crime rates, though in fact evidence that the death penalty has any deterrent effect is at best mixed.
From the Paper
"The people are demanding the death penalty as if it were a quick solution to a complex problem, when in fact it is no solution at all but merely a case of public revenge and scapegoating. It is scapegoating because the death of one prisoner comes to stand in for all the street crime in the nation, as if his or her death would..."
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The Death Penalty, 2006.
An analysis of the death penalty: it's history, the pros and cons of using the death penalty and possible alternatives.
2,073 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 105.95
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Abstract
The paper investigates the issues surrounding the death penalty, or capital punishment. The writer examines the history of the death penalty and current developments in its execution. The paper explores the pros and cons of using capital punishment; available alternatives; different points of views from different sectors in society; and the common issues involved. The paper concludes that although the death penalty may be warranted in certain cases, one must be prepared for the possibility of a wrongful conviction.
Table of Contents:
I. Introduction
II. Capital Punishment: Death Penalty
A. History of Death Penalty
B. The Pros and Cons of Death Penalty
C. Death Penalty Alternatives
D. Cost
E. 4 Issues of the Death Penalty
1. Deterrence
2. Arbitrariness.
3. Retribution
4. Wrongful Convictions
III. Conclusion
From the Paper
"On the other side, it can't always be expected that just because two crimes from different states appear to be the same, the criminals will be punished similarly. The US court found it unconstitutional to mandate death penalty to all who are guilty of 1st degree murder. Hence, each member of the judicial system is entitled to his or her own judgment on a case-to-case basis. Though there may be some people who get away from being punished with death penalty, it does not follow that everyone should then be spared."
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Death Penalty for Juvenile Offenders, 2005.
This paper discusses the arguments for and against the juvenile death penalty.
1,470 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 4 sources, APA, AU$ 78.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the U.S. Supreme Court decision "Roper v. Simmons" (2005) holds that the death penalty for juveniles is "cruel and unusual" and as such, the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments of the US Constitution forbid the execution of offenders who were under the age of 18 when their crimes were committed. The author points out that the advocates for juvenile death penalty argue that a murder committed by a 16 or 17 year old is as gruesome as that committed by an adult and that individuals exhibit different ranges of maturity thus some 17 year olds may be more "mature" than other 20 year olds. The paper states that, in opposition to the juvenile death penalty, psychologists and behavioral scientists have long known that adolescents do not yet have a brain ability to reason as adults do, are 'wired' to behave more irrationally than adults and are subjected to hormonal instability.
Table of Contents
Arguments for Juvenile Death Penalty
A Murder is a Murder
Case-to-Case Basis
Deterrence
No Consensus
Arguments against Juvenile Death Penalty
Brain Development
Raging Hormones
Adolescents are Similar to Mentally-Retarded People
Death Penalty is no Deterrent for Juvenile Offenders
No Death Penalty does not mean Complete Clemency for Offenders
Public Opinion
International Stance
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The alleged evidence quoted by anti-capital punishment advocates that death penalty is not a deterrent is inconclusive. The threat of being put to death as a result of committing murder has always proved to be a deterrent throughout human history. There is no reason to assume that such deterrence does not apply to juveniles. As an example, Christopher Simmons (of the Roper v. Simmons fame) was 17 at the time when he and a 15-year old broke into the home of the victim (Shirley Crook) in Missouri; they bound up the woman with electrical wire and pushed her into a river to die. While planning the burglary and murder, Simmons told his friends that even if he were caught, nothing would happen to him because he was a juvenile. If he had known that he would be facing the death penalty he would surely have not committed the crime."
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Death Penalty, 2006.
An argument against the death penalty.
2,304 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 12 sources, MLA, AU$ 114.95
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Abstract
This paper scrutinizes the issue of the death penalty, highlighting grave disparities behind this form of capital punishment. The paper provides arguments against the death penalty that are based on ten main points, all focusing on the need for abolishment of the capital punishment. The paper discusses each of these arguments.
Outline:
There is no Moral and Ethical Justification for Death Penalty
Crime is not the Sole Responsibility of an Individual
System of Sentencing to Death is Unnatural
Death Penalty is not a Deterrent
Death Penalty is Racially Biased
Death Penalty is against Basic Human Rights
Law is not Perfect - Innocents are being Executed
Reducing Public Support for Death Penalty
Is Death Penalty Constitutional?
Death Penalty Impacts on Diplomatic Relations amongst Countries
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Crime has remained an integral part of our society since its inception and will continue to plague it for times to come. Humans are aggressive and violent by nature, and our society is inhabited with such people who are capable of committing heinous acts of violence against their own kind. Despite deliberate efforts of law enforcers, the crime is getting more sophisticated and adopting wider scope. In order to harness the violent nature of mankind, societies evolved rules and regulations commonly known as the laws. Any person found violating these laws is subjected to punishment which not only curtails the criminal's freedom but also serves as a deterrent for others.
The Criminal Law is the body of statutory and common law that deals with crime and the legal punishment of criminal offenses. The criminal law is based on four theories of criminal justice: punishment, deterrence, incapacitation, and rehabilitation. The purpose of criminal law is to retain a peaceful social order (Melchior, pars. 1-3). To fulfill this purpose, a suspect found guilty of an offence is awarded punishment ranging from few months imprisonment to life term. The law also incorporates death penalty to criminals, which over the period of time has been abolished in many countries but is still persisting in United States. It is in fact, one of the most debatable issue in criminal law. There are strong proponents of the death penalty but its efficacy and legitimacy remains a constant irritant. "
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The Death Penalty, 2002.
This paper discusses that the death penalty is not an effective deterrent.
2,265 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 4 sources, AU$ 113.95
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Abstract
This paper presents many arguments in opposition to the death penalty as a deterrent. The author asks if in fact the death penalty does serve as a deterrent, why do the many Western countries that have abolished the death penalty have lower murder rates than jurisdictions in the United States that still considers it a viable punishment. The author believes that while the death penalty may serve as a retribution, there is little sociological evidence to support that someone is deterred more by the prospect of being executed than the prospect of a life sentence without possibility of parole.
Table of Contents
Effectiveness of the Death Penalty as a Deterrent to Criminal Homicide
Pros and Cons of Death Penalty
Cost of Life Sentence without Parole vs. the Death Penalty
Recidivism
States That Impose the Death Penalty and Form of Execution
Retribution, the Family and Society
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The effectiveness of the death penalty as a deterrent depends on the degree to which the average criminal actually weighs the consequences of his behavior prior to acting. Criminal homicide is loosely divided into categories based upon level of intention. To the extent that criminal homicide is unintentional or in the heat of passion, the criminal does not weigh consequences at all; and so the criminal would not be deterred by the death penalty. To the extent that criminal homicide is intentional or premeditated, a number of psychological mindsets are possible beforehand. The criminal might assume he will get away with it (and therefore, he does not need to worry about possible punishments). Or, the criminal might think he will get caught."
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The Death Penalty, 2004.
This paper discusses issues around the death penalty and concludes that there is little suggestion that the debate surrounding the death penalty will ever be resolved.
2,815 words (approx. 11.3 pages), 7 sources, APA, AU$ 134.95
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Abstract
The paper states that the difficulty with the debate over the death penalty often adds up to one in which people are arguing about a certain approach to an abstract ethical system and the experiential reality of those involved in and connected to a death-penalty case, which makes the entire issue suffused with an even more impressive and murky layer of complexity than if it were merely an issue of conflicting theories of jurisprudence. The paper points out that, in all of the issues surrounding the death penalty, it is strange how often the issue focuses on the rights of the killer and how infrequently the feelings and thoughts of the victim?s family are considered in any real depth. The paper concludes that the United States has come to hold an increasingly unique stance in relation to the death penalty, as it is one of the few countries that practices capital punishment and, certainly, the one that practices it with the greatest frequency.
From the Paper
"Indeed, some critics claim that they the argument that families witnessing the execution of death penalty subjects is in fact not beneficial in the least, and that, rather than helping to deal with the stress, it is just as likely to cause damaging psychological effects that may create long-term problems, such as post-traumatic stress disorder. Indeed, one critic of this process conducted a study of 21 journalists who were allowed to witness a public execution in 1994 and discovered that it had severely damaging results on their psyches."
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The Death Penalty, 2007.
An argument against the use of the death penalty in the United States.
1,992 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 102.95
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Abstract
The paper presents the arguments against the use of the death penalty. The paper shows how innocent people could be put to death for crimes they did not commit. The paper looks at the arguments for the use of the death penalty but refutes them as baseless. The paper strongly contends that the execution of criminals in the United States is socially unjust and morally wrong.
Outline:
A Short History of the Death Penalty
Arguments Against the Use of the Death Penalty
Arguments for the Use of the Death Penalty
From the Paper
"Putting people to death as a punishment for their crimes is not a new or unique idea. In fact, it has been a common practice throughout the world since ancient times. Jesus Christ died on the cross for his "crime" of Christianity. In early America, individuals were shot for committing treason, and lynching as a form of punishment was common, especially in the Old West. However, in modern times, many people have come to see the inhumanity of the Death Penalty as a punishment, and have begun to speak against it. In America, this began as early as the 18th century, and the Supreme Court banned the use of the Death Penalty from 1972 until 1976 in the U.S. However, public support seemed to indicate the American people wanted the Death Penalty, and the Supreme Court reinstated it in 1976, and it has been controversial and debated ever since."
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The Death Penalty, 2002.
Examines the two main arguments on each side for and against the death penalty and the basis of these arguments.
1,370 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper presents the two main arguments in favor of the death penalty which are the theory of deterrence and the ?eye-for-an-eye? premise. The paper also explains the view point of those who oppose the death penalty. It explains that they generally argue that the death penalty does not deter people from committing serious crimes such as murder, and that people will not stop committing serious crimes such as murder out of fear of the death penalty. Those who oppose the death penalty often argue that its vengeance is a pointless motivation for punishment because it brings no real feeling of solace to the families of victims.
From the Paper
"Whether the death penalty deters crime is a point on both sides of the death penalty debate. Those in favor of the death penalty argue that it deters crime, while those who are against it argue that it does not. From a utilitarian standpoint, deterrence is the most important element of the debate because there is no reason to have the death penalty if it has social benefit.
I do not believe it has any deterrent effect, and there is scant evidence to support that it does. More importantly, the death penalty has historically been applied in an uneven manner, with African-Americans and other minorities unfairly receiving the death penalty disproportionately."
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The Death Penalty, 2005.
This paper discusses the arguments in favor and against the death penalty, especially from the standpoint of the U.S. Constitution, including specific cases.
2,600 words (approx. 10.4 pages), 14 sources, APA, AU$ 126.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that opposition to the death penalty has focused (1)on the issue of the constitutionality by citing the Eighth Amendment's prohibitions against cruel and unusual punishment to prove their claims, (2) the death penalty is ineffective in reducing incidents of violent crime and (3) it is prohibitively expensive. The author points out that the death penalty proponents believe (1) the death penalty is constitutional because it is specifically mentioned in the Bill of Rights stating that the only constitutional prohibition against the death penalty is that it no person be deprived of life without due process of law (U.S. Const. Amend. V) and (2) the death penalty accomplishes legitimate goals, such as punishment and retribution, which cannot be accomplished by alternative sentences. The paper relates that the one thing that both sides agree upon is the fact that "death is different" (Woodson v. North Carolina, 428 U.S. 280 at 305 (1976)): There is no appeal from the death penalty.
From the Paper
"Death penalty proponents argue that those deficiencies have been remedied by recent Supreme Court decisions. In "Atkins v. Virginia", 536 U.S. 304 (2002), the U.S. Supreme Court determined that executing the mentally retarded is unconstitutional. However, opponents of the death penalty can point out the fact that many states have failed to comply with the Atkins decision. Even though there is evidence that many people currently on death row are mentally retarded, some states have failed to institute any way of determining whether or not inmates currently on death row are mentally retarded. The fact is that mild mental retardation may not be apparent to the casual observer, including trial judges."
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The Death Penalty, 2007.
This paper presents the pros and cons of the death penalty.
2,070 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 10 sources, APA, AU$ 105.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the controversial issue of the death penalty. The author presents the pros and cons of this topic in a list format and also gives a history of capital punishment. Also discussed are alternatives to the death penalty and how differing segments of society view this issue. The paper also considers the financial implications of the death penalty, especially as it relates to the court system. The paper concludes by stating that an opinion on this issue must be based on research.
Outline:
Introduction
Capital Punishment: Death Penalty
History of Death Penalty
The Pros and Cons of Death Penalty
Death Penalty Alternatives
Cost
4 Issues of the Death Penalty
Deterrence
Arbitrariness
Retribution
Wrongful Convictions
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Death Penalty, also referred to as capital punishment, is the lawful execution of a prisoner as a punishment for serious crime, often called capital offense. Being one of the controversial topics in the United States and all over the world, I decided to have my interests focused on doing a research about this topic. "
"As you read along, you might encounter topics that you will find critical. Bear in mind that I am doing this research not to influence your thoughts on this sensitive issue. Each one is still entitled to his opinion in the end. What I would like is to help my readers broaden their knowledge on death penalty by understanding its history and developments. And explore further by presenting the pros and cons behind it, available alternatives, different points of views of the different sectors in the society and the common issues tackled."
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Life and Death: Abortion and the Death Penalty, 2005.
Explains why there is no contradiction in simultaneously viewing abortion as permissible in the early stages of pregnancy but the death penalty as impermissible.
2,025 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 4 sources, APA, AU$ 114.95
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Abstract
This paper explains why a woman's views that abortion in the early stages of pregnancy is permissible but that the death penalty is never permissible are congruent and consistent from a moral and ethical standpoint.
From the Paper
"Though Abby rejects the application of the death penalty in all instances she does advocate the permissibility of abortion in the early stages. Despite the seeming contradiction of ethics or morals in these views, Abby's views on abortion and the death penalty are more congruent than they might initially appear. This is because abortion is part of a woman's overall reproductive rights guaranteed by law while the death penalty is often applied in a biased manner and represents state-sanctioned homicide..."
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The Death Penalty, 2004.
This paper discusses social attitudes and modern alternatives to the death penalty.
3,885 words (approx. 15.5 pages), 16 sources, MLA, AU$ 171.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the issue of the death penalty raises deep emotions on all sides of the debate because many people feel that the death penalty no longer holds value as a tool for society to prevent heinous crimes. The author points out that the primary support for the death penalty tends to come from law enforcement groups that believe society has a right to exact retribution from lawbreakers through capital punishment. The paper concludes that capital punishment carries with it a sense of finality and lack of forgiveness that modern society has a difficult time accepting because today s social systems want to see justice, restoration, and a hope for rehabilitation.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Social Theory Supporting and Opposing the Death Penalty
Supportive Theory
Opposition to the Death Penalty
Deterrence
Restorative Justice
A Mistake that Cannot be Reversed
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Only a century ago, when our nation was considerably more religious in practice and social paradigm, his kind of argument was dominant among those favoring the death penalty. Religious people understood, and believed that a measure of justice and punishment for wrong behavior was an important foundational principle on which civilized people built. Orthodox Presbyterian and Congregationalist clergymen constantly advanced this perspective against the more humanistic theology pressed by Unitarians, Universalists and the Quakers."
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