16 of 55

Yes

Write now Article Tools

If you kill someone who commits a crime you 100% deter their future crimes. It is truly that simple and while the weak do not like it the deterrence is without question.

The problems occur when trying to use the execution of one to prevent crimes committed by another. What is the disconnect between the two? Well, the Puritans did a very good job of making punishments painful and public. The painful part to give the criminal a clear reminder of what peaceful and lawful society expected of them. The public aspect a lesson for the rest of society the price of crime. Now, centuries later we scratch our heads wondering why a guy spending decades on Death Row fails to teach us not to commit murder.

I support the Death Penalty because at least that one killer will never again have the chance to kill. Would I prefer it be more public to provide a stark example to our children? Yes, but those with weak stomachs and little civic sense don't want their liberal dream of reform ruined by such harsh reality. Until we recognize the rights of victims and the law's duty to protect good citizens from bad ones no punishment will deter crime effectively. Its a hard choice that must be made by people who want justice instead of expediency. Justice is not for the weak or squemish.

If you are against the Death Penalty then don't break laws that make its application possible and also develop an alternative that will completely prevent that criminal from committing future acts. See in Texas we shoot rabid dogs because they are obviously suffering beyond help and they endanger the safety of society as a whole. Pulling the trigger is not easy but no one said doing right for the good of society was easy, no, but its vital for that society to live in peace.

Learn more about this author, T. M. Beeker.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Is the death penalty an effective crime deterrent??
We want to hear your view. Write now!