Ernest van den Haag

The death penalty is just, argues Ernest van den Haag in the following viewpoint. He contends that human beings are morally responsible for their actions and should therefore be punished accordingly for their crimes. In the case of murder, a death sentence is appropriate because it punishes the criminal in proportion to the harm caused by his crime. Furthermore, the author asserts, any unfair or wrongful application of capital punishment does not warrant abolishing the practice. Justice is still justice even if it is administered unfairly. Ultimately, retributive justice should be informed—but not replaced—by mercy, he concludes. Van den Haag is a psychoanalyst and retired professor of jurisprudence and public policy.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. In van den Haag’s opinion, what is the primary moral purpose...