Quote Originally Posted by ethen View Post
Statistics overwhelimingly show no change in murder rates in states which go from allowing the death penality to not allowing it, and vice versa.
Because justice isn't doled out swiftly enough so it's become a running joke. In every case I know of - even when dealing with terrorist heads (Saddam, anyone?) we tend to drag the process on for years and years. Every one knows that all it takes is a smooth lawyer and your chances of evading justice are very probable.



Isn't that what prison is for?
Why are dogs or gators that have developed blood-lust put to death? Same reason. Once a killer - always a potential killer. Once a cheater - always a potential cheater. When one has the propensity to murder then they are no longer fit for life. Pampering them in custody does not send the right message to society. Instead, it shows a level of tolerance for heinous acts.

What about the poster who comes here for the sole purpose of SPAMming the forum? Should they be allowed chance after chance because - after all - they might change? (I just had a horrible vision of my own actions around here, minus the SPAM aspect. I really to need to be nicer). No, they need to be banned.


And yet the ultimate penalty arguably does more harm than good.
Stopping society's most dangerous does far more good than harm. How does ending a killer's life do harm to society?

What would you say the purpose of punishment is?
Deterrance and to change people's ways. Now, I know you'll counter with the notion that you can rehabilitate a killer. Just like some think you can change the heart of a child molester. But, is the risk to others worth taking the slim chance that one might have a epiphany? Even if yes, what gives them the right to life after willing denying some one else that right?

An overwhelming majority of people who spend time in jail/prison end up repeating their crime, many times on a larger scale.

As I point out on a regular basis, personal responsibility is where it's at. If you can't handle the consequence than you'd better think twice about earning and/or deserving it.