How the Death Penalty Sets an Example Essay Example
How the Death Penalty Sets an Example Essay Example

How the Death Penalty Sets an Example Essay Example

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  • Pages: 3 (807 words)
  • Published: January 24, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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The reinstatement of the death penalty in 1976 has sparked heated discussions concerning its suitability as retribution for homicide, essentially trading one life for another. Despite this punishment being carried out in 1287 instances, it only affects a tiny portion of those incarcerated (Rogers). At present, lethal injection is a lawful method of execution in 34 states, with many offering an alternative procedure.

Some individuals might argue that the death penalty infringes upon the Constitutional Rights handed down to us by our forefathers. However, there is a counter perspective suggesting that the death penalty might actually be advantageous. This notion stems from its potential effectiveness in reducing violent crimes because of its intimidating repercussions for those on death row and those who will undergo lethal injection. Rather than viewing it as a harsh and extreme form of punishment, som

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e regard it as an approach to uphold societal order and lessen instances of violent crime.

Certain individuals contend that the death penalty or state-imposed punishment for crimes, is harsh and tormenting. Nonetheless, it's essential to understand that such viewpoints often originate from those who are misinformed or lack comprehensive comprehension. Contrary to this belief, the death penalty is executed humanely through a three-step process; initially, an anesthetic called sodium thiopental is used to numb the convict effectively (Kennedy). This phase is followed by injecting Pancurinium, a muscle relaxant. The final step includes administering potassium chloride intravenously that quickly results in heart failure of the convict.

The entire procedure of administering these medications and the prisoner undergoing cardiac arrest lasts merely seven minutes. It does not inflict any pain or distress o

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the inmate. Numerous medical professionals provide substantial evidence that this method is the most humane for carrying out an execution. This technique is employed by all states that impose capital punishment for their executions. Contrarily, some critics equate state execution with murder, which is a seriously flawed and misleading assertion and by no means can be considered an act of homicide.

Does equating capital punishment to homicide suggest that U.S. military personnel, who have caused a death, should face legal proceedings? This perspective may sound extreme and uncompromising but it mirrors the fervor of the original proposition. It's important to remember that inmates on death row possess the right to form a will and share their final thoughts with visiting family members (Ornellas). Moreover, they are granted the chance to deliver a closing remark just prior to their execution being performed (Ornellas).

Unlike homicide victims who usually don't have the chance to prepare for their imminent demise, individuals on death row are granted this advantage. As they stand trial for their terrible crimes, murderers inherently receive more constitutional protections than those they harm. The affected ones do not enjoy a fair trial, chances to appeal or even the ability to make final arrangements before facing their destiny. Humans naturally dread death (Ornellas), an unchangeable part of our being that is deeply rooted in both our conscious and subconscious minds.

Should it be universally recognised that immediate capital punishment would be the consequence of committing murder, it could deter potential murderers by triggering a fear of death. This punishment could induce psychological apprehension towards their proposed course of action. Most murderers understand that

only a fraction of prisoners get sentenced to death row, with an even tinier subset actually facing execution.

Overall, informing individuals about the severe legal repercussions that evoke fear, could decrease murder rates. As in political discussions, debates surrounding this matter will always involve supporters and dissenters, each emphasizing their unique viewpoints - making universal agreement on one perspective unattainable. There are a multitude of divergent opinions on the death penalty that are valid and supported by compelling evidence advocating its termination. Some people argue from a religious standpoint that anyone causing another's death is essentially a killer - an opinion that can be understood.

Various professionals, including doctors, enter agreements to join organizations like the American Medical Association (A. M. A. ), which may position them in a State Law versus Medical Ethics debate (Black). Presently, A. M. A. members who happen to be doctors are prohibited from being present in the execution chamber (Black). The advantages of maintaining the death penalty tend to surpass the drawbacks in numerous respects. One primary way the death penalty benefits the United States is by regulating potentially unruly citizens' behavior and preventing murders.

Every time a political election happens, the controversial topic of the death penalty along with candidates' standpoint on it becomes a major talking point. Disagreements surrounding it persist irrespective of whether it's wholly banned, completely accepted, or accepted to varying degrees on a per-state basis as currently in place. For now, both factions need to realize that neither viewpoint is entirely correct or outright wrong and each does have a certain rationale behind them.

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