[Paleo Conservative]

The rationale for the death penalty is a mystery to me. Even the proponents do not claim that it deters crime, and it costs the state more than imprisonment, given that numerous appeals must be litigated. And DNA evidence has proved that we have come dangerously close to frying a good number of innocent people. So, will someone articulate for me just why you belive we should continue the practice?

When the US ousts Saddam should he be allowed to live in prison? Should his scientists who are pursuing research and development of weapons of mass destruction, be allowed to live? If they are allowed to live they can pass on their knowledge to other rogue states that could be dangerous to us. If they are executed after tribunals in which all documents showing their methods are sealed, then their knwoledge will be made neither public domain nor available for other rogue states. If we allow them to live, we could be endangering the lives of millions of people.

[eagleye]

So how do you resolve the thorny problem of executing innocent people? Or do you figure that that's just something we have to accept as collateral damage?

[eagleye]

Earth to Paleo,

Your Saddam argument is just about the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. Nuclear weapons technology is already widespread and easily available, even to 3rd-world countries. What in the world does your argument have to do with the execution of American citizens?