Many of you seem to be under the assumption that the death penalty is an effective deterrent for murder. Someone who has decided to end the life of another human being has already disregarded the most basic social taboos of our society and has accepted the punishment of life imprisonment, which to many is on a par with the death penalty.
Most murderers fall under one of three categories 1. The murderer is under extrenuating circumstances such as anger or confusion. In this case it is clear that they are not reviewing the possible consequences of their actions; thus proving the death penalty an ineffective deterrent. 2. The murderer believes that they are invincible and cannot be punished. Once again the death penalty proves to be an inefficient deterrent. 3. The murderer is suffering from a severe depression. In this case, because the murderer is most likely somewhat suicidal, they are by definition not afraid of the death penalty.
The purpose of a prison is to force or encourage the murderer to repay their debt to society. One may find it difficult to repay their debt to society when one is located six feet beneath the ground. In conclusion the death penalty is only a barbaric means of revenge. On the has no place in a civilized nation.