Why is it that whenever capital punishment appears in a debate someone makes the statement that it is not a deterrent. This is an impossible statement to prove unless you can read the minds of everyone involved in a violent confrontation, the minds of anyone seeking revenge, the minds of anyone seeking large financial gain. Yes, violent crime still happens where the death penalty is in place but no-one can possibly say how many homicides have been prevented or not.
Pro advocates of capital punishment have a strong arguement when you look at the figures. The homicide rate is this country has risen since abolition. The figures for Texas, despite claims above, have dropped. Although there are too many other factors involved to reach a clear conclusion from figures alone.
Good link re figures and both side of the debate.
http://www.richard.clark32.btinternet.co.uk/th oughts.html
I think that all punishment should hold an element of fear for the criminal which is not apparent in our society. To say that being caught is the best deterrent is too simplistic. If you have ever met the professional thief, burglar etc you would know that they realise that it is inevitable that they will be caught at some time. It's an occupational hazard to them and a bonus when they get a suspended sentence or community service.