Which of the following is a common argument against capital punishment?

The argument that capital punishment is costly to administer is a significant point in the debate surrounding the death penalty. This perspective highlights that the financial implications of capital punishment extend beyond the execution itself. The costs associated with capital cases generally include lengthy legal processes, extended trials, and the appeals system, all of which require substantial resources. Moreover, the costs of maintaining death row inmates and the heightened security measures contribute to the overall financial burden.

In contrast, the assertion that capital punishment is effective in deterring crime suggests a viewpoint that lacks strong empirical support; studies have often indicated that there is little to no relationship between the presence of the death penalty and lower crime rates. The idea that it increases public safety is also contested; while proponents argue that it removes dangerous individuals from society, opponents point to the complex nature of crime and safety that is not easily addressed by capital punishment alone. Lastly, while some view capital punishment as supporting the principle of justice, this is countered by arguments about the morality of taking a life and the potential for wrongful convictions, which challenges the notion of justice being served.

Thus, the considerations surrounding the costs associated with capital punishment fuel the debate and provide a crucial argument against its use.