Capital Punishment Essay: Benefits of The Death Penalty

Stopping Crime

The death penalty's a big deal 'cause some think it really helps in stopping crime. Just the thought of getting executed can make folks reconsider doing something horrible. Who wants to risk their life, right? Economist Isaac Ehrlich looked into this and found that for each execution, about seven fewer murders happen in the U.S. That's pretty wild! It seems like having such a harsh punishment really makes potential criminals think twice.

And don't forget about repeat offenders. Sure, putting someone in jail might keep them away for a bit, but what if they get out? There's always the chance they might commit more crimes. Executing someone makes sure they never hurt anyone again. So yeah, maybe the death penalty’s a strong warning for those thinking they’ll just do their time and then go back to old ways.

Justice for Victims

Now let’s talk justice for victims and their families. When awful stuff like murder or terrorism happens, it causes a ton of pain. Giving the death penalty to those guilty sends a message that society cares about justice and won’t just brush aside the lives lost.

For families of victims, knowing that the criminal is facing the ultimate punishment can bring some closure. They’ve been through so much pain and trauma; this might help them start healing and moving on. It doesn’t erase what happened, but it sure shows that society stands by them.

Keeping Social Order

The death penalty also plays a role in keeping social order intact. Laws are there to protect us, and knowing there could be such severe consequences keeps people from acting out violently or criminally.

If we didn’t have the death penalty, some criminals might get off too easy for serious crimes. That could make folks lose trust in our justice system — not good at all! By having it, we’re saying loud and clear: society won't put up with terrible crimes, and we're gonna hold wrongdoers accountable.

Wrapping Up

All in all, maybe keeping the death penalty around isn’t such a bad idea after all. It can prevent crime, serve justice to victims, and maintain social order. By punishing those who commit horrendous acts, we’re protecting innocent lives and stopping criminals from striking again. Plus, it gives some peace to grieving families knowing justice is served.

While folks will keep arguing about it — 'cause it's definitely controversial — looking at these benefits helps us see its place in our justice system today.

References

• Ehrlich, I. (1975). "The Deterrent Effect of Capital Punishment: A Question of Life and Death". The American Economic Review.
• Bureau of Justice Statistics. (n.d.). "Capital Punishment Statistics". United States Department of Justice.
• Sarat, A., & Boulanger, C. (Eds.). (2005). "The Cultural Lives of Capital Punishment: Comparative Perspectives". Stanford University Press.
• Zimring, F.E., & Hawkins, G.J. (1986). "Capital Punishment and the American Agenda". Cambridge University Press.
• Pojman L.P., & Reiman J.H.(1998) "The Death Penalty: For and Against". Rowman & Littlefield Publishers.