Evolving Standards of Decency: A Contemporary Analysis of the Death Penalty

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

The death penalty is a controversial issue in the United States. Despite recent uncertainty regarding specific methods of execution, there has been a decrease in sentences imposed since 1998 and research indicates that the penalty of death is actually imposed by a minority of states and further, by a minority of counties within those states. This research will review the constitutionality of the death penalty. It will also review current issues surrounding methods of execution as well as the theoretical dimensions associated with the deterrent value of this form of punishment. The research will also explore whether there is a decline in the imposition of the death penalty and whether evolving standards of decency are changing to warrant the abolition of this form of punishment.

Authors

• Noemi Arroyo, Texas A&M International University

• Karla Sepulveda, Texas A&M International University

• Miguel San Miguel, Texas A&M International University

• Rogelio Padilla, Texas A&M International University

• Agelica Gutierrez, Texas A&M International University

• Claudia San Miguel, Texas A&M International University