If executions are to achieve deterrence, would-be killers must identify with criminals who are executed. On the other hand, if executions brutalize, would-be killers must identify their victims with executed criminals and themselves with state-sanctioned executioners.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This statement is true. The effectiveness of executions as a deterrent or as a means of brutalizing depends on whether would-be killers identify with the executed criminals or with the state-sanctioned executioners. If they identify with the executed criminals, then the fear of execution may deter them from committing violent crimes. However, if they identify with the executioners, then executions may reinforce their beliefs that violence is an acceptable means of achieving justice.

If Executions Are to Achieve Deterrence, Would-Be Killers Must Identify