Death Penalty

Question 1

Jewish attitudes to capital punishment? (2)

Answer 1

Capital punishment is accepted only as a last resort.
This form of punishment reduces the threat to society as murderers will be non-existent.

Question 2

Jewish teachings about capital punishment? (3)

Answer 2

The torah says capital punishment should be used for certain offences.
The basis of the Jewish theory of punishment is the protection of society
Capital punishment is allowed but only if the murderer has been warned of the consequences of their action and there are two independent witnesses to the murder.

Question 3

SOWAA for death penalty

Answer 3

‘anyone who strikes a man and kills him shall surely be put to death’

Question 4

Why do Jews not accept capital punishment? (3)

Answer 4

They feel that it doesn’t actually reduce crimes.
A wrong person could be convicted.
The Talmud puts many restrictions on the death penalty.

Question 5

Non Religious attitudes to capital punishment? (3) Rejection.

Answer 5

Correct verdict can’t always be given.
Murderers don’t expect to be caught so they don’t even consider punishment.
Imprisonment can be considered worth than death.

Question 6

Non Religious attitudes to capital punishment? (3) Acceptance

Answer 6

If someone knows they’ll die for murder they wont do it.
Murderers are a great threat to society.
The only retribution or compensation for taking a life is for the criminal’s life to be
taken.