We all know that Ryan stopped executions in Illinois. What does SayUncle think about this death penalty stuff? I’m glad you asked.

In theory, I support the death penalty. It is our society’s way of saying that some crimes are so heinous that they warrant killing the offender, both as a punishment and to deter others who may do the same thing.

In application, however, I oppose it. Studies have shown that the death penalty is not consistently applied among the races; nor is it equally applied among the wealthy, middle-class, and the poor. In addition, there have been instances in which someone who was innocent was executed. Unfortunately, there’s no way to undo the damage at that point.

Also, the fact that people are on death row for 20 years is absolutely ridiculous. If used, the death penalty should be expeditious. After 47 appeals and begging for clemency, considerable time passes. Perhaps a limit should be set on the number of appeals. And people on death row for many years have made fortunes by writing books, doing interviews, and selling memoirs. This is just appalling. I realize that current legislation prevents monetary gain on these activities now, but it was ridiculous.

Adieu!

Posted in uncategorized on January 14th, 2003 by SayUncle | RSS 2.0 |