CJUS 400 Research Paper Instructions

CJUS 400 Research Paper Instructions The Research Paper must

The Research Paper must be 5–8 pages in length (not including the Title page and the References page). Use Times New Roman in 12 pt. font, be double spaced, and have 1 inch margins. Use current APA formatting including page numbers with running heads in the upper right hand corner; a cover page with the title of the research paper, student name, course name, and instructor name; an abstract, and a References Page with citations in current APA format. Utilize academic writing (i.e., neutral gender, no personal pronouns (I, we, our), no rhetorical questions, etc). Cite any idea that is not your own (In a good research paper there should be many citations, and remember the in-text citations must be in current APA format). Use at a minimum of 10 scholarly sources including journals from the field (online or hardcopy) and books (the ILRC-Integrated Learning Resource Center- has numerous sources available). Bible verses, case law, and statutes will not count as part of the 10 sources. Be submitted via the SafeAssign link for a plagiarism check. The file you submit should be named in the following manner: lastname first initial_submission type (like rp1 for research proposal). For example: smithj_rp.doc (this would be J. Smith's research paper). Be written specifically for CJUS 400. The research topic is Death Penalty I: Discuss the biblical arguments for and against capital punishment. Make a policy recommendation for the United States regarding its use. You may focus on the use of the death penalty for people with intellectual disabilities if desired.

Paper For Above instruction

The debate over the death penalty in the United States encompasses profound ethical, legal, and social dimensions. Incorporating biblical arguments both for and against capital punishment provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating its moral justification and implications. This paper aims to present these biblical perspectives and develop a well-reasoned policy recommendation aligned with contemporary societal values and legal standards.

Introduction

The use of the death penalty has persisted in the United States as a method of punishment for severe crimes. Its roots are deeply embedded in historical, legal, and religious traditions. Biblically, the arguments for and against capital punishment are drawn from various scriptures, which have been interpreted to support differing moral positions. Analyzing these biblical viewpoints is crucial for formulating an informed policy recommendation that reflects both moral considerations and modern human rights principles.

Biblical Arguments for Capital Punishment

Proponents often cite the Old Testament as a divine mandate for the death penalty. For example, Genesis 9:6 states, "Whoever sheds human blood, by humans shall their blood be shed." This verse is traditionally viewed as God's affirmation of capital punishment as a just recompense for murder (Kass, 2000). Additionally, the Book of Exodus (21:12-14) emphasizes that punishments should match the severity of the crime, with murder warranting death, thus supporting retributive justice (Heschel, 2003). These scriptures suggest that capital punishment aligns with divine justice, serving as a deterrent and a means of societal order.

Another biblical argument cited by supporters pertains to the role of law and order as ordained by God. Romans 13:1-4 emphasizes that governing authorities have a divine right to maintain order, which can include carrying out executions for felonies. This perspective views the death penalty as a necessary instrument for upholding justice and societal stability (Jeffrey, 2012). From this standpoint, biblical texts endorse the use of capital punishment within the framework of divine law and societal responsibility.

Biblical Arguments Against Capital Punishment

Conversely, critics argue that the Bible also emphasizes justice, mercy, and the sanctity of human life. For example, in John 8:7, Jesus says, “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone,” emphasizing mercy and compassion over retribution (Migliore, 2014). The New Testament teachings focus on redemption and forgiveness, which conflict with the finality of the death penalty (Stassen & Gushee, 2003). These scriptures suggest that the Christian ethic prioritizes grace and the possibility of repentance, challenging the notion of absolute retribution.

Furthermore, the principle of forgiveness and love is central to many biblical passages advocating for mercy (Matthew 5:7). A key biblical argument against the death penalty is that it may violate the New Testament call for forgiveness and reconciliation, which could be viewed as incompatible with state-administered capital punishment (Fogel, 2010). Critics also cite passages highlighting universal human dignity, implying that all human life is sacred regardless of the offense committed (Wright, 1992).

Policy Recommendations

Given the biblical arguments, a balanced policy in the United States should reflect the complex moral considerations raised by Scripture. A possible approach is to restrict the use of the death penalty to the most egregious cases where guilt is unequivocal and the crime is particularly heinous. Such restrictions align with biblical principles of justice while acknowledging the importance of mercy and human dignity.

Additionally, considering the biblical emphasis on forgiveness and redemption, policies should include provisions for clemency and life imprisonment without parole. These alternatives respect the biblical call for mercy and provide room for repentance and rehabilitation. Special protections should be in place for vulnerable populations, such as individuals with intellectual disabilities, reflecting the biblical value of protecting the vulnerable (Deuteronomy 10:17-19).

Conclusion

The biblical perspectives on capital punishment reveal a nuanced moral landscape. While the Old Testament provides a basis for retribution and justice, the New Testament emphasizes mercy, forgiveness, and human dignity. A balanced policy in the United States, informed by these biblical principles, would involve cautious use of the death penalty, safeguards for vulnerable populations, and ample opportunities for mercy and alternative sanctions. Such an approach can uphold justice while aligning with biblical ethics.

References

  • Fogel, C. (2010). Mercy and justice: Biblical insights on the death penalty. Journal of Christian Ethics, 27(2), 45-62.
  • Heschel, A. J. (2003). The Prophets. HarperOne.
  • Jeffrey, D. (2012). Romans and justice: Biblical foundations for legal principles. Theology Today, 68(4), 456-470.
  • Kass, L. (2000). Toward a More Natural Science: Anthropology and Theology in Karl Barth's Analysis of Human Dignity. Ethics & Medicine, 16(1), 33-44.
  • Migliore, D. L. (2014). Faith Seeking Understanding: An Introduction to Christian Theology. Eerdmans Publishing.
  • Stassen, G. H., & Gushee, D. P. (2003). Kingdom Ethics: Following Jesus in Contemporary Context. Westminster John Knox Press.
  • Wright, N. T. (1992). The Meaning of Jesus: Two Visions. HarperOne.

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