Chapter 1

1. The author of the first viewpoint argues that for criminals who “have no expectations beyond the Grave,” only capital punishment will serve as a deterrent. In Cesare Beccaria’s view, why is long-term imprisonment a more effective deterrent to criminals than death? Which author do you find more persuasive, and why"

2. Horace Greeley contends that capital punishment “weakens the natural horror of bloodshed” and teaches disregard for human life. How does John Stuart Mill counter this argument? In Mill’s opinion, what does the death penalty teach about human life? 3. Robert E. Crowe maintains that criminals often commit murder in the course of robberies “on the theory that dead men can make no identifications.” In Clarence Darrow’s opinion, why do burglars often kill their victims? What does Darrow think is the cause of...