Opponents of this argument criticize it for being vindictive. They argue capital punishment cannot be applied in degrees. Yet a convict's culpability for a capital crime often does admit of degrees. Capital punishment as deterrence. The threat of death discourages someone from committing heinous acts against individuals and society.
Critics dispute the deterrent capability of capital punishment.
They say capital punishment may even harden a criminal, who, to avoid arrest and the prospect of execution, is driven to further acts of desperation. Finally, critics wonder how executions performed in the presence of just a few witnesses can publicly deter potential wrongdoers. Capital punishment as reform. The threat of imminent death can spur the conversion and repentance of the convicted, aptly preparing him or her for the next life. Authoritative Catholic teaching draws upon all that has been discussed thus far.