Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide?
The death penalty should not be abolished because it helps prevent serious crimes.
Knowing that they could face death might make criminals think twice before
committing murder or terrorism. Without this punishment, some criminals might not
fear the consequences as much. For extreme cases like mass murder, the death
penalty matches the seriousness of their actions.
It also gives justice and closure to the victims’ families. When a loved one is killed,
families may feel that life in prison isn’t enough. The death penalty shows that society
takes the crime seriously and punishes the criminal in a way that fits the severity of
their actions.
Argument 1: Justice for Serious Crimes The death penalty is a fair punishment for the
most serious crimes like murder and terrorism. These crimes are so terrible that only the
death penalty matches the seriousness of what has been done.
Although some people say life in prison is enough, the death penalty reflects the real weight
of these terrible acts.
Argument 2: Protecting Society The death penalty makes sure that dangerous criminals
can never hurt anyone again. Life in prison might still allow these criminals to escape or
cause harm to guards or other prisoners.
Therefore, the death penalty is the only way to guarantee that society is fully protected from
these individuals.
Argument 3: Deterrence The death penalty can stop some people from committing violent
crimes because they know they could face the ultimate punishment. Even if it doesn’t stop
everyone, it can still prevent some crimes.
On the other hand, without the death penalty, criminals may not fear the consequences of
their actions as much.
Counter-questions to Ask the Other Side:
1. If we abolish the death penalty, how can we guarantee that the most
dangerous criminals won’t escape or harm others?
• Supporting Argument: Life in prison doesn’t completely remove the threat.
There have been cases where prisoners have escaped or committed violence from inside
the prison. The death penalty is the only way to guarantee these individuals can never harm
anyone again.
2. What do you say to the families of murder victims who believe that life
in prison isn’t enough to bring justice?
• Supporting Argument: The death penalty isn’t about revenge; it’s about
justice. Some crimes are so horrific that life in prison doesn’t feel like enough for the victims’
families. The death penalty shows that society takes these crimes very seriously.
Questions:
1. Does the death penalty prevent crime?
Yes, it can. The fear of facing the death penalty may make some criminals think twice before
committing serious crimes like murder. Even if it doesn’t stop all crime, it can still act as a
deterrent for some.
2. What do you think about the method of the death penalty (hanging,
electrocution, the gas chamber, firing squad, and lethal injection)?
While some methods seem harsh, lethal injection is used today because it’s considered
more humane. The method should always aim to be quick and painless, but the focus is on
delivering justice.
3. Do you know what Amnesty International is?
Yes, Amnesty International is a global human rights organization that fights for justice and
fairness worldwide.
4. Why does Amnesty International oppose the death penalty?
They believe it violates human rights, especially the right to life, and they worry about the
possibility of innocent people being executed.
5. Do you agree or disagree with what Amnesty International said?
I understand their concerns, but I disagree. Justice should be about punishing the most
serious crimes appropriately, and the death penalty can sometimes be the only punishment
that fits the crime.
6. If you kill someone else, don’t you deserve to die, too – “an eye for an
eye”?
Yes. In cases of murder, the death penalty is a fair punishment. It matches the severity of the
crime and ensures the criminal can’t harm anyone else.
7. Don’t victims of violent crime and their families have a right to justice?
Absolutely. The death penalty can provide justice for victims and their families. For some
crimes, life in prison may not be enough; the death penalty shows that society takes their
suffering seriously.
8. What are the advantages and disadvantages of the death penalty?
Advantages: It can deter crime, bring justice, and protect society from dangerous individuals.
Disadvantages: Some worry about mistakes and fairness, but modern systems have
safeguards to minimize these risks.
9. What if public opinion is in favor of the death penalty?
If the majority supports it, that’s a strong reason to keep it. Public opinion reflects what
society believes is fair and just, and in many cases, people want to see serious criminals
face the death penalty.
