Do you think capital punishment is a deterrent to crime?

[Cigar Dave]

I’m not asking about the morality (or use of this as punishment) as it would most likely wind up in the boiler room, but rather do you think capital punishment is a deterrent to crime (other than to the one being executed of course)?
Sorry if this has already been posted but I’m just curious what the opinion here is.

 

[Patronus]

Well, it certainly deters THAT ONE.

If punishment is "swift and sure" it is effective. Even capital punishment after 20 years on death row is not all that intimidating to other criminals.

 

[Severian]

IMHO, no, I don't think so at all. Most murders are not premeditated, but tend to be spontaneous, impulsive acts.

 

[Petro_58]

No, Not the Joke that we have now for Capital Punishment.

 

[NGIB]

While probably not a deterrent, it's very effective in preventing repeat offenses...

 

[booberj]

I don't think it's a deterrent... the ones that will live long enough to actually get their punishment carried out are too young/dumb to think about the consequences and the others don't believe they are going to live long enough for the capitol punishment to catch up with them before they are dead anyways

It just takes too long to carry out the sentence... the process takes entirely too long

 

[sovietak474u]

nope. With appeals, waiting times and odds of actually getting put to death. Id say no. Even in texas where they use it more than anybody... people still murder. Some people dont care if they live or die to start with. So , yeah id say "no".

 

[Patronus]

Sadly, most death row inmates live longer(and BETTER) inside than they would on the street.

 

[mtgldr]

Hasn't stopped those at the capital from committing crime.

 

[Shovelhead]

Not in it's present state.. Now if the convicted was immediately lead out the back door and executed... I say yeah.... Actually I think we could make a ton of money in having an "Executioner" lottery. Win and be God for a day...