Question:
Opponents of capital punishment cite: (i) humans cannot terminate what they cannot generate; (ii) punishment aims at reformation; (iii) opportunity to repent must be given. Defenders reply that punishment is for paying one’s dues; reformation/repentance is peripheral. Hence death penalty is admissible. What is the {focus of this debate?}
Opponents of capital punishment cite: (i) humans cannot terminate what they cannot generate; (ii) punishment aims at reformation; (iii) opportunity to repent must be given. Defenders reply that punishment is for paying one’s dues; reformation/repentance is peripheral. Hence death penalty is admissible. What is the {focus of this debate?}
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Locate the focus by asking: “What single claim must one side be right about for its conclusion to follow?”
Updated On: Aug 12, 2025
- Man’s rights and privileges
- Nature and purpose of punishment
- Prevention of crime
- Mercy and revenge
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
The central focus of the debate regarding capital punishment, as presented in the arguments, revolves around the nature and purpose of punishment.
Let's analyze the viewpoints:
- Opponents argue from the perspective that:
- Humans lack the moral right to end a life.
- Punishments should aim towards reformation.
- Individuals should have the chance to repent.
- Defenders argue:
- Punishment serves as a means for offenders to pay their dues to society.
- The aspects of reformation and repentance are considered secondary or peripheral.
Both arguments fundamentally address what the inherent nature and objectives of punishment should be—whether it should focus on retribution or on fostering repentance and rehabilitation. This makes the nature and purpose of punishment the primary subject of the debate.
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