Are many death penalty supporters generally, at-root, emotional in their opinion on the subject?

Question

I have had many conversations about the death penalty with many people of the whole array of opinions. I see often that the supporter of the death penalty seems emotionally upset in thinking about the subject. Does this indicate that some death penalty support is rather more emotional than rational? (I know that sometimes opposition to the death penalty is "emotion" based. But that answers a different question, not this one.)

Answer 1

I was for the death penalty at one time. After being a corrections officer for 5 years my view has ironically changed. At root my view was emotional and still is except i thought to myself,"Whats more barbaric? Killing someone due to an irrational rage, Mental disorder, and emotional disorder or a room full of people silently watching in an air conditioned room in comfy seats while they peer through the glass as a man slowly dies from lethal injection as a punishment. Though death by distorted emotion is horrific I argue that the latter is more barbaric.

Answer 2

When life and death are at stake, it's gotta be an emotionally charged issue, pro AND con.

Perhaps different emotions predominate on each side - more anger and need for retribution on the pro death penalty side - and more anxiety on the anti-side.

Both sides have a different idea of what justice is, and what is the role of the state as a dispenser of justice, so rational ideas as well as emotions are involved on both sides of the issue.

Answer 3

Interesting that most people who oppose the death penalty for murderers, do support the killing of babies with abortion.
I support the death penalty for murderers calmly.
I'm against abortion because I know people are getting rich by killing babies. It's a money making opportunity.

Answer 4

I am a supporter of the death penalty, and I am rather calm about it. I generally don't discuss it much though.

Answer 5

I think lifers in prison should be in labor camp atmospheres, and simply must produce 'x' amount for their meals. NO amenities.

Then get rid of the death penalty, for the reasons Randy C mentions above.

Answer 6

i think with the death penalty your letting them off the hook,and in many cases you kill them for killing someone Else,have they fully learned their lesson by killing them?i think they should be locked up forever no family no phone nothing let them feel nothing from the outside at all just like they put the families of the victims through and give them bread and water every day too

Answer 7

Death should not be taken lightly. Of course, some people get emotional discussing sliced cheese as well.