Assignment task:
100 words for each student- 1 citation for each.
Student #1:
Eliza Camila
First-degree murder is characterized as the intentional, premeditated killing of a person. This involves deliberation and concise planning of the murder. Although it is quite a huge crime, I believe there should not be a death penalty. On one hand, there is a risk of "accidentally" executing an innocent person; however, there is also the sense where giving the death penalty is almost pointless. Even though they committed a serious crime, killing them is not going to do anything. The one who was murdered is already dead and there is nothing that could be done in order to reverse or bring back time. On top of that, it is not like executing the murderer will make the government seem like the "good guys". In the end, killing someone is still killing someone despite whatever context there may be. The murderer kills an innocent person and the murderer is killed by being sentenced with the death penalty. Death is death and as we know, death is irreversible. Rather than seeking justice for the murdered person or "revenge" on the murderer, the government should focus more on restoring balance and healthy practices that address the causes of such crimes and promote healing processes for those who were victims, offenders, and etc. along with the rest of the community because it is also important for everyone to be aware of these things and how we can help each other out in certain situations.
Reference:
Burrell, T. (n.d.). Death Penalty. [Video]. Canvas@WCU.
Student #2:
Diana Carrillo
When someone is charged with first-degree murder, it means they have committed the act with premeditation and malicious intent. In other words, they planned to target someone specifically and caused enough harm to end that person's life. Because of this, I believe the death penalty should be an option in extreme cases of first-degree murder. In situations such as serial killers who murder with clear ill intent, death may be a more appropriate punishment than allowing them to live with basic necessities in prison. There is no moral justification for taking another person's life, and the death penalty can offer a sense of closure to the victim's loved ones. However, I believe it should only be applied in the most severe cases, as there have been instances of innocent individuals being sentenced to death. Therefore, it should be reserved for those with overwhelming evidence against them, proving they fully intended to inflict pain and kill another person.
Arguments for and against the death penalty. Death Penalty Information Center. (n.d.).