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Punishment Theory Of Retributivism

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A Kantian Ethicist would say yes, we have a moral duty to execute tried and convicted killers. The punishment theory of Retributivism states that offenders deserve to be punished for their crimes, “an eye for an eye or a life for a life” this indicates Kant is for execution. This theory passes the test of categorical imperative because it can be universally applied and accepted by all. The means-end principle is also followed because the convicts are free to make their own moral laws and their own informed choices.

I agree that convicted killers should be executed, however I think there should be a waiting period before the execution should occur. Too often we see our judicial system fail us and unjustly convict innocent people. Before an

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