If the Death Penalty Is Twice as Likely to Be

question 27

Essay

If the death penalty is twice as likely to be imposed on an African American defendant who is convicted of the same crime as a Caucasian American, do you think this is grounds to examine the sentences for discrimination? What, if anything, can be done about such results?

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Definitions:

Personal Values

Fundamental beliefs and principles that an individual considers important and guides their behavior and decision-making.

Veil Of Ignorance

A method of determining the morality of political issues proposed by John Rawls, where decision-makers are ignorant of personal characteristics to ensure impartiality.

Thought Experiment

A hypothetical scenario used to explore the potential outcomes and implications of a theory or principle without physical experimentation.