What is capital punishment?

Capital punishment, also known as the death penalty, is the legal process by which a person is put to death by the state as punishment for a crime, typically a serious felony.

What are the most common methods of execution used globally?

Common methods include lethal injection, electrocution, gas inhalation, hanging, and firing squad, though practices vary significantly by country and legal jurisdiction.

Which countries still practice capital punishment?

While a majority of countries have abolished it, capital punishment is still practiced in nations like China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, North Korea, and certain states in the United States, among others.

Does capital punishment deter crime more effectively than life imprisonment?

The deterrent effect of capital punishment is a highly debated topic. Many studies have found no conclusive evidence that it deters crime more effectively than life imprisonment.

What are the primary arguments against the death penalty?

Key arguments include the risk of executing innocent individuals, its disproportionate application based on race or socioeconomic status, its inherent cruelty, and its violation of human rights principles.