The Death Penalty Pros and Cons

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The Death Penalty (Final Paper) Sabrina Sohail Mrs. Biernat December 2, 2012 Since the pre-colonial era, the death penalty has been a key form of punishment in the justice system of America. Throughout the years many countries have decided to abolish the death penalty, however it still remains in thirty-eight out of the fifty states in America. Through many reforms, the crimes that are deemed deserving of the death and the method of death have evolved greatly, however is still very controversial. Many claim that the death penalty is going against human morals and it is inhumane to take someones life no matter the circumstances. Though there is the other argument that someone who believes that they have the right to take someones life, must face the consequence of losing their own as well. The country has a large population on both sides of this issue. At first glance it is easy to think that the death penalty’s controversy is driven by religious or emotional responses such as morality. However, there are many different debates on the validity of the system itself. The first being, the irreversible consequences of the death penalty. No jury can be one-hundred percent sure of their decision, and there is always a chance of innocent execution. One-hundred and forty-one innocent people have been exonerated after being accused of death and put on death row (Carter, 2012). Also, there are arguments that it is against American morals as it violates the clause in the eight amendment which prohibits cruel and unusual punishment. Though the sentence itself may not be cruel, it is difficult to find a method of execution that is considered humane. However, people also argue that it is a fair compensation for death, gives closure to families. There is also the claim that the Death Penalty acts as a deterrent however studies show that 80

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