The issue of the death penalty is one of the most debated topics in the world today, as it raises strong

moral, ethical, and legal questions. As a society, we must decide whether the death penalty is an
appropriate punishment for those found guilty of certain types of crimes. The emotional, moral and
ethical discourse on either side of this debate will continue to be discussed passionately. This essay will
provide an in-depth analysis of the history of the death penalty, its current use around the world, and the
moral and ethical questions it raises.

The death penalty is a controversial form of punishment in the modern justice system. It has been used
since ancient times as a measure of retribution for heinous crimes. The death penalty, or capital
punishment, is the infliction of death on a person who has been convicted of a capital crime, typically
murder (Clark). It is now used in a small number of countries and certain U.S. states, with varying levels
of public support. Proponents of capital punishment argue that it deters future homicides, minimizes risk
of further violence, and provides closure for families of victims. Opponents, however, cite moral and
human rights issues as well as evidence to suggest that the practice is not an effective crime deterrent,
leading to its abolition in many jurisdictions (Cavanaugh).

The death penalty is a controversial punishment used when an individual is convicted of a capital crime,
such as murder. It is a permanent, irreversible punishment that has been practiced for hundreds of years.
Supporters of the death penalty believe it is necessary in order to deter crime and keep the public safe,
while opponents argue that it is inhumane and that another form of disability should be considered instead
(Shah). This debate has been ongoing since the death penalty was first introduced and continues to be a
pressing issue in many countries across the world today.

The death penalty is a punishment given to individuals convicted of a capital crime, usually murder. Some
people believe that this punishment is too harsh and that it convicts those who are executed are deprived
of their right to life. Others argue that this punishment is necessary, as capital crimes are extremely
serious and must be met with the most severe of deterrents (Amnesty International). The decision of
whether or not to give a convict the death penalty is usually made by the court system or a jury of peers
after a thorough deliberation , however, and can differ depending on the country. Regardless, it is clear
that the death penalty sparks a heated debate and is not a resolution that should be taken lightly.

Evidence supporting the effectiveness of the death penalty exists. A study by Shepherd, Hall, and Vito
(2000) found that capital punishment is a unique and powerful deterrent for potential criminals which
significantly reduces murders. This evidence demonstrates that death penalty does have some deterrent
effect, which is why I believe it is a necessary form of punishment.

Overall, I think that in some cases, there is merit in using the death penalty as a form of punishment.
Although it is a serious penalty, it is not necessarily inhumane.

In conclusion, the death penalty is a controversial and highly debated topic. It has complex ethical and
moral implications that have caused deep divisions in opinions among different groups. Whatever opinion
one holds, it is important to recognize the underlying complexities of the issue and that can only be done
by engaging with this difficult topic in an informed and respectful way.
1) Clark, David S. "The Death Penalty." Britannica Concise Encyclopedia. 2006. Encyclopædia
Britannica Online School Edition. 06 Apr. 2016
<http://concise.britannica.com/ebc/article-9384605/death-penalty>.
2) Cavanaugh, Catherine M. "Capital Punishment." Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia. 2009.
Encyclopædia Britannica Online School Edition. 06 Apr. 2016
<http://school.eb.com/levels/high/article/capital-punishment/271668>.
3) Shah, Anup. "Capital Punishment." Issues: Understanding Controversy and Society. ABC-CLIO, 01
Jan. 2009. Web. 06 Apr. 2016.
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