Just Revenge: Costs and Consequences of the Death Penalty
With 3200 condemned prisoners on death rows and executions routine in 38 states, social psychologist Costanzo contends that it is time for this country to reconsider the cost and consequences of the death penalty. His ensuing text is thoroughly researched and refreshingly easy to read. Chapters 1 and 2 give the history of executions in the United States from the first documentation in 1608. Although the author makes scant mention of the American witch trials and the treatment of slaves, he shows proof that this country was at one time more humane than Europe in its methods. In subsequent chapters, he considers whether the death penalty is cheaper than life imprisonment, is fairly applied, or is a deterrent to potential murderers. Highly recommended for its content and style, this book should be useful for academic collections in sociology and criminal justice.?Frances O. Sandiford, Green Haven Correction. Facil. Lib., Stormville,Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.