Hwk 3: Capital Punishment and “Death by Fire.”
No late work accepted.
1.View the film, “Death By Fire” at http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/film/death-byfire/ (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.. Please watch until the end as
there is an interesting update.
2. We will cover some introductory issues on the death penalty and the “pro” arguments
in class. For this assignment, familiarize yourself with the arguments from the following
websites. Note: You should be aware that the sites take an “anti” position and are not
neutral on the issue.
http://www.deathpenaltyinfo.org/ (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. —
Try looking under the “issues” tab and the “resources” tab for most of your information.
http://conservativesconcerned.org/why-were-concerned/ (Links to an external site.)Links
to an external site.
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/09/01/death-penalty-convictions-decreased-in-brokecounties-nationwide/ (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
After seeing the film and analyzing the websites, fully discuss these questions. For
each question, provide supporting evidence from the websites and film.
1) Cost: Does the death penalty or life in prison cost more? Why? Explain. (Note: This is
a factual question not an opinion). Does the issue of cost matter to you? Why?
2) What factors do you believe most contributed to Willingham receiving the death
penalty in this case?
3) Explain how does socioeconomic status plays into this case and the punishment.
Cite 3 examples of how socioeconomic status affected the case.
4) We will discuss issues of legal representation in class, but 1) how did Willingham
receive legal representation (hired or appointed by the courts)? 2) From the film, do you
think his attorney did an effective job of representing Willingham? Explain 2 points to
support your answer.
5) Does the Death Penalty deter crime? (Note: This is a factual question not an
opinion). Explain what the evidence indicates. Does the answer to this question matter
to you? Why or why not?
6) Based upon the websites, how does race affect the Death Penalty? (Make sure that
you fully explore this question. Discuss victims, perpetrators, prosecutors, judges, juries,
etc).
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