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Capital punishment (Death Penalty) is still accepted in some countries and is considered “just” for crimes such as murder and terrorism. But how effective as a deterrent to crime and ethically justifiable is this form of punishment? Let’s delve into this a bit more.

Historical Context

We have made notable progress in many areas of life. However, when it comes to capital punishment, it appears as though we are stuck in medieval practices. Capital punishment is likely one of the oldest known forms of punishment, its origins lying in the very first human communities, probably even well before the first written records. In ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece, capital punishment was an integral part of the justice system. Although the methods and motives for the execution of capital punishment have changed over the centuries, it remains a central element of the criminal justice system in some countries to this day.

Methods of Execution

The methods of execution have changed significantly throughout history, often reflecting the state of technology and societal norms of the respective era.

Ancient to Medieval
In ancient and medieval times, execution methods were probably the most cruel and were carried out publicly. They served not only as punishment but also as deterrence. Common methods included stoning, crucifixion, burning at the stake, and beheading.

Early Modern Period to 19th Century
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the guillotine was introduced as a quicker and less painful method. Hanging was also developed to hasten death.

20th to 21st Century
In the 20th century, new methods of execution were introduced with the electric chair and the gas chamber, which were seen as less cruel, yet often caused painful and botched executions. More recently, lethal injection has been introduced as a more humane method, although there have been reports of botched executions here as well.

Lethal injection is currently the preferred method in many countries and US states. However, firing squads, the electric chair, and hanging are still common in some areas.

Ethics and Human Rights

A state’s right to end the life of a citizen stands in direct contradiction to fundamental human rights principles. Capital punishment offers no opportunity for rehabilitation, and its final nature leaves no room for rectifications in the case of judicial errors. Capital punishment does not address the underlying causes of criminality and represents a fundamental violation of human dignity.

Cost Aspect

The notion that a life sentence is more expensive than capital punishment is understandable, yet erroneous. Court proceedings in capital cases are more complex and expensive as they require additional reviews and more expensive legal representation. Thus, a life sentence offers a more ethical and even cost-effective alternative.

Does Capital Punishment Deter?

The thesis that capital punishment serves as a deterrent for serious crimes is often cited, but there is no conclusive evidence supporting this claim. Studies show no clear correlation between the existence of capital punishment and a reduction in crime rates. Most of the time, offenders act impulsively or under the influence of drugs and alcohol, without considering the possible consequences of their actions.

Alternatives to Capital Punishment

Instead of the death penalty, societies should rely on life sentences that provide opportunities for rehabilitation—albeit without the possibility of early release. This alternative respects human life and gives convicted individuals the chance to change. Additionally, it protects against the risks of wrongful convictions, which are irreparable in the case of the finality of the death penalty.

Closing Words

While some may argue that murderers and rapists deserve the death penalty, I find it ethically unacceptable to end a human life, regardless of the crimes committed. In my view, a life sentence without the possibility of parole is the better alternative.