"The Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution's Bill of Rights prohibits the use of "cruel and unusual punishment." That phrase was written at a time when burning and beheading were still acceptable legal punishments in some places. Much has changed in America in two centuries. This easily accessible guide examines the context that inspired the Founding Fathers to include this phrase, as well as the concept of "evolving standards of decency." Interesting,...

When a violent crime is committed, some people believe the only fair punishment is for the perpetrator to be put to death. Others feel that this practice is inhumane and that no one should be deliberately killed, regardless of what he or she may have done. This volume examines the history of the death penalty, the ways it is administered, and the arguments for and against it. Chapter questions encourage discussion among readers, and detailed charts...

Discusses capital punishment, whether it is applied fairly to everyone, and whether it does any good.

Presents a discussion on the death penalty, covering such topics as arguments for the death penalty and objections against it, and how the United States differs from other countries in handling the issue.

Discusses capital punishment, analyzing how it affects those condemned to die, those who have been victimized, our society, and the enforcers.

Examines the fairness, morality, and efficacy of capital punishment in America and around the world.