Paul H. Rosenberg

Rather than deterring murder, the death penalty in the United States actually increases the violent crime rate, argues Paul H. Rosenberg in the following viewpoint. The author cites several studies revealing that an upsurge in murder has occurred in states and counties that reinstated capital punishment in the 1970s and 1980s. Cultures with high levels of violence and an inclination toward vengeance, he explains, experience an increased murder rate following executions—a “brutalization effect.” Such is the case with the United States, the author maintains. Rosenberg is a freelance journalist.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to Rosenberg, what is the average murder rate for states without the death penalty? What is the average murder rate for the thirteen states with the most executions"
2. What is...