Article: DEATH PENALTY ADVOCATES ASSUME THE SYSTEM WORKS.(Perspective)

Byline: Scott N. Fein

Public debate about the death penalty assumes that the judicial system is infallible and that the penalty is a deterrent. In the face of these assumptions, discussion turns upon personal values and prediliction rather than facts.

The trend toward value-laden argument may reflect a general weariness with the discussion and a desire to put it to an end.This is an understandable reaction, but it serves to rob the issue of meaningful debate and to equate passion with persuasion.

The Legislature has voted to reinstate the death penalty. While the governor considers whether to again withhold his approval, a brief review of ...

Related newspaper, magazine, and journal articles:

 
 
Newsweek Harper's Magazine The Washington Post Chicago Tribune Crain's Chicago Business PRNewswire Pediatric News The Nation Advertising Age The Economist (US) A FREE trial gives you access to over 80 million articles! Access over 6,500 publications with a FREE trial!