As much as any controversy, capital punishment is a major issue in American politics.

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As much as any controversy, capital punishment is a major issue in American politics.

In 2002, 71 persons in 13 States were executed -- 33 in Texas; 7 in Oklahoma, 6 in Missouri; 4 each in Georgia and Virginia, 3 each in , South Carolina, and Ohio; 2 each in Alabama, Mississippi, and North Carolina; and 1 each in Louisiana and California.

In 2003, 65 inmates were executed, 6 fewer than in 2002. 

The death penalty has become a topic of serious controversy in recent years. In particular, debate has been made over whether or not the death penalty is an appropriate punishment for severe crimes such as murder. Although the topic has been the subject of recent debate, it is interesting to note that the basic opinions on both sides of the argument date back to ancient times.

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There are essentially two justifications for criminal punishment. The first is retributive.

It is the idea that criminals deserve to be punished, that it is morally right to punish wrong acts. The second justification is utilitarian. Under this theory, punishment is justified because it makes society better off in some way, perhaps by deterring potential criminals, protecting society by segregating criminals, or by reforming the criminal such that he/she can one day rejoin society.

I don’t believe either of these justifications for criminal punishment supports the use of the death penalty. To take the utilitarian view first, I would ...

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