While in the United States, capital punishment has been abolished in 23 states, still, groups like the Death Penalty Information Center take stances in favor of the measure. “Since society has the highest interest in preventing murder, it should use the strongest punishment available to deter murder, and that is the death penalty,” the group states. Additionally, other definitions in favor of the death penalty see this punishment as a tool used to preserve the order of our society. 

Those ideas are reflected among citizens. According to a 2021 survey conducted by Pew Research, most U.S. adults are in favor of the death penalty for those who have been convicted of murder and 64% of people say it is morally justified. 

However, while many believe in the moral justifications, the death penalty does not prevent others from committing similar crimes. Additionally, there is no surefire way to know if a person is innocent or not. If an innocent person happens to be executed, the process is irreversible. 

One of the biggest concerns with the death penalty is the immediate disadvantage posed toward minority groups. According to another Pew Research study, people of different races and classes are disproportionately more likely to receive the death penalty compared to their white counterparts who committed the same crimes. 

Regarding Prometheus and his punishment in the Greek mythology, he was not sentenced to death, instead he received torment for the rest of his life due to the theft of fire from the Gods. Prometheus’ liver would be eaten every day by an eagle and would regenerate at night, but he was saved by Hercules. This reflects life sentencing without parole in today’s society. Being saved gave Prometheus a second chance, yet, people who receive a death sentence don’t get second chances.

The death penalty is not the only option to punish wrongdoing. Although the criminal justice system claims to value reform, the death penalty takes away that possibility. Arguably, the best option is lifelong imprisonment with rehabilitation and social reforming. Closure for victims and their families remains a myth. Capital punishment does little to prevent and resolve the actions already done. The impact one’s crime might have had on a family will stay. Ultimately, the death penalty is inhumane and gives power to take a life wrongfully.