Why is it in the news?

• The recent use of nitrogen gas (in Alabama) for execution marks a significant departure from traditional execution methods.
• The use of nitrogen gas as a means of execution has prompted discussions about the broader implications of capital punishment and its place in contemporary society.

Arguments in Favor of Capital Punishment

• Proponents argue that the threat of facing the death penalty may deter individuals from committing heinous crimes due to the severity of the consequences.
• Capital punishment is often viewed as a form of retributive justice, wherein perpetrators are held accountable for their actions through proportional punishment.
• Advocates argue that certain crimes warrant the ultimate penalty as a means of achieving justice and closure for victims and their families.

Arguments Against Capital Punishment (Ethical Concerns)

• Opponents argue that capital punishment is inherently cruel, inhumane, and violates fundamental human rights, particularly the right to life.
• Critics contend that there is insufficient evidence to support the claim that the death penalty effectively deters crime.
• One of the most significant ethical concerns surrounding capital punishment is its In cases of wrongful convictions or miscarriages of justice, the execution of an innocent person cannot be undone, resulting in a grave miscarriage of justice.
• Opponents argue that the focus should be on rehabilitation and reintegration rather than punitive measures like capital punishment.