There can be little question that the execution of Saddam has been a PR debacle. Has Saddam ever looked so dignified and justified as when he demanded of his executioners if they were acting as men or as honorable Arabs? (This paraphrased dialogue occurs in the cellphone video clip circulating on the web)
As to the death penalty, I have always felt that it is a bad idea for some of the reasons stated in this thread, but also primarily becasue the studies show it doesn't work as a deterrent. OTOH, I am not morally offended by its use, and if it involved a crime against my family I am sure I would be willing to pull the switch, but as a social policy it is not a very good one, in my mind.
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Sorry for th e tpyos.
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