研发例会纪要.ppt

The Death Penalty A Catholic Perspective The Purpose of Punishment Retribution Deterrence Security (Defense against the criminal) Rehabilitation Retribution Restoring to right order, or restoring the good. After an evil action, there should be a restoration of balance and order in society. Restitution to the victim may be required of the criminal who steals, for example. Retribution does not mean vindication or revenge. These actions are sinful in nature. Lex Talionis, or an “eye for an eye” from the biblical tradition of Mosaic Law, appeals to this restoration of the good. Lex Talionis Prescribes a sense of balance in the imposition of a just punishment. By metering out a fit punishment for the severity of the crime, it restores order. Lex Talionis admits limitations in punishment. We cannot justify brutality for brutality, rape for rape, torture for torture. Is Deterrence Effective? In order to act as a deterrent, executions must be: Swift and certain. These criteria can also lead to an abuse of civil rights. Which, in turn, would lead to an increase in the number of innocent people executed. Broadcast to the population. We would have to implement televised executions. Deterrence as Moral Criteria The deterring factor is uncertain. Research neither supports or refutes the deterring factor of capital punishment. Deterrence is an appeal to Utilitarian Ethics. Catholic moral teaching does not accept the utilitarian method (if it works it must be good) as the sole basis for moral judgment. Catholic moral teaching is based upon human dignity. Our just response to every human person, who is created in the image of God. Security of Society The Death Penalty is 100% effective in protecting society against the criminal, and any further criminal action he might take. The Church recognizes the authority of the State to implement the death penalty. Security and Necessity Improved penal systems. We are able to secure society through improved, maximum security p