Ethical arguments related to the death penalty (OCR GCSE Religious Studies): Flashcards
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Sanctity of life principle
Sanctity of life principle
All life is sacred; only God can take a life
Judicial errors concern
Judicial errors concern
Innocent people could be executed wrongly
Why death penalty may not deter crime
Why death penalty may not deter crime
Murders often committed in heat of moment
Religious view on taking life
Religious view on taking life
Only God has the right to take a life
Retribution principle for death penalty
Retribution principle for death penalty
An eye for an eye - punishment fits crime
Principle of utility
Principle of utility
Action is right if promotes greatest happiness for most
Just retribution argument (for)
Just retribution argument (for)
Ensures punishment fits crime; gives victims' families closure
Deterrence argument (for death penalty)
Deterrence argument (for death penalty)
Threat prevents others committing similar serious crimes
Irreversible nature of execution
Irreversible nature of execution
Cannot rectify mistake if innocent person executed
Inhumane/degrading argument (against)
Inhumane/degrading argument (against)
Causes suffering; violates dignity; death row = torture
Forgiveness & redemption argument (against)
Forgiveness & redemption argument (against)
Denies offender chance to repent & make amends
Protecting society argument (for)
Protecting society argument (for)
Removes irredeemably dangerous criminals permanently