DeathQuest

by Robert M. Bohm

This fifth edition of the first true textbook on the death penalty engages the reader with a full account of the arguments and issues surrounding capital punishment. The book begins with the history of the death penalty from colonial to modern times, and then examines the moral and legal arguments for and against capital punishment. It also provides an overview of major Supreme Court decisions and describes the legal process behind the death penalty. In addressing these issues, the author reviews recent developments in death penalty law and procedure, including ramifications of newer case law, such as that regarding using lethal injection as a method of execution. The author's motivation has been to understand what motivates the deathquest of the American people, leading a large percentage of the public to support the death penalty. The book educates readers so that whatever their death penalty positions are, they are informed opinions.

Genres: Nonfiction, Reference

594 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Mahmoud Awad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Straightforward, detailing judicious and social history of capital punishment in the US from the 17th century to present. The reader will take away two pieces of information from this book. The first, that capital punishment in America is an inadequate, grossly expensive, and highly inefficient attempt at retributive justice in its current implementation. The second, that for purposes of humane and expedient execution, ischemia is unconditionally superior to hypoxia, period. Do not be swindled, delicate reader! Jay Chapman's three-drug protocol is a perversion, and a waste of costly pharmaceuticals.

[Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book detailing a full introduction to the death penalty. This book gives both detail about the methods as well as theory behind why we have chosen to kill our criminals.

[Tosha Meher]

good