In this discussion you will make a total of three posts, one initial post and two reply posts. Initial posts should be 200-250 words. Reply posts should be 100-150 words. Points will be deducted for not meeting the minimum word count requirements. 

Note: You must make an initial post before you can see what others have posted.

Please respond to the following: 

Thirty-two states currently use the death penalty but this number is down from thirty-four just a few years ago. Recent studies have also shown a decline in support for the death penalty from the American people. A new Pew Research Center survey finds 56% favor the death penalty for people convicted of murder, while 38% are opposed. The share supporting the death penalty has declined six percentage points, from 62%, since 2011. Do you personally believe that the death penalty should be abolished? Why or why not? In your post, use the movie from class https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9w1ANeiohXo and the notes from chapter 14 to support your position. For example, in your post, you should address issues such as: Do you believe the death penalty to be cruel and unusual punishment? Is simply sitting on death row for many years cruel and unusual punishment?