After collecting data,a researcher determines that places that have instituted a death penalty have shown a decrease in murders.Assuming that the data are accurate,what can be safely concluded?
A)The relationship has been determined by another variable.
B)Places that do not have a death penalty should consider instituting one as a deterrent to violent crime.
C)There are fewer murders in places that have a death penalty.
D)It is likely that violent criminals have moved to places that do not yet have a death penalty.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The data shows a correlation between the presence of a death penalty and a decrease in murders. This suggests that the death penalty may act as a deterrent to potential murderers, leading to fewer incidents of violent crime in places that implement it. However, it is important to note that correlation does not necessarily equal causation, and other factors may also be at play. It is not necessarily safe to conclude that all places without a death penalty should institute one, as there may be other factors that influence the effectiveness of such policies in different contexts.

After Collecting Data,a Researcher Determines That Places That Have Instituted