• More than 80% of the people who have been executed, have been executed for the murder of white victims. How do you account for this? What effect might this have on perceptions of the justice system among people of color?
First we must know how many defendants were white or of color in these cases that involved white victims. White people are also a majority in this nation, so it can reasonably be inferred that since there are more white citizens, it is more likely that a murder victim is white. However, racism will always exist within human nature and society, so there is no true unbiased court ruling that involves color. Even if we consider ourselves to be racially tolerant of all people, we are subconsciously affected by the stereotypes, and racial slurs that are constantly used in society. So when a jury is deciding their verdict in a death penalty case they could subconsciously be effected my the stereotypes that are portrayed by society, which could result in more convictions and executions of people of color, due to fear that is subconsciously caused by stereotypes.
• The film frequently references the 1972 Furman v. Georgia decision that the death penalty was in violation of the 8th Amendment of the Constitution. The 8thAmendment states: “Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.” How does this constitutional issue play a role in your opinions for or against the death penalty?
I believe that the death penalty is classified as cruel and unusual punishment. Many of the forms of execution seemed to be very painful and demeaning for the inmate the was being executed. Especially when there is a doubt that the defendant is guilty, the death penalty should not be used. The family of the victim gains nothing from the death of the convict, except closure but life in prison can provide very similar closure. I believe that only in the most hideous of crimes (such as John Wayne Gassey) should the death penalty be given.
• Deadline depicts two inmates who were wrongfully sentenced and later exonerated (David Keaton and Gary Gauger), and other inmates whose guilt was not in question. Is there one position on the death penalty that you think is satisfactory in all cases? Do you think it is possible for a state to construct a foolproof capital punishment system where there is no risk of executing an innocent person? Is some margin of possible error acceptable?
I believe that the death penalty should not be issued in cases of a single murder. Society is always at risk of a random person committing murder, but when a single person continuously murders people, society is in danger. The sense of security that society has is threatened. When serial killers are on trial and society as a whole is in danger because of a single person who constantly threatens a specific part of society, the death penalty should be given. I don't think it will ever be possible for a fool proof capital punishment system to be constructed. There is always going to be racial bias, even if we think we are not being racially biased. Also Deadline mentioned multiple cases where police tortured confessions out of innocent suspects. The torture of suspects is cruel and unusual punishment, and forcing a confession out of an innocent suspect is against what the justice system stands for.
Nice job so far Cody. Your post on your outside reading is especially detailed and thorough however in it, as well as all of your posts, work to go beyond your initial opinions and explore the whys and so whats. Make this meaningful to those that read it and not just a collection of "I thinks".
ReplyDeleteStill, overall solid and interesting to read.