Ielts Academic Writing Task 2 Sample 133

In some countries, the death penalty is still used as a form of punishment for serious crimes, while others have abolished it. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the death penalty and give your opinion.

The death penalty remains a highly contentious issue, with proponents and opponents debating its merits and drawbacks.

Advantages of the death penalty include its potential deterrent effect on crime. Supporters argue that the fear of facing capital punishment may dissuade individuals from committing heinous crimes, thus contributing to public safety.

Additionally, proponents believe that the death penalty provides a sense of justice and closure to victims’ families and serves as a form of retribution for the most egregious offenses. In cases where offenders pose a continuing threat to society, the death penalty may also prevent future harm.

However, there are significant disadvantages associated with the death penalty. One concern is the risk of wrongful convictions and the irreversible nature of capital punishment. Despite procedural safeguards, miscarriages of justice can occur, leading to the wrongful execution of innocent individuals.

Moreover, the death penalty disproportionately affects marginalized and disadvantaged populations, highlighting issues of systemic bias and inequality within the criminal justice system.

Additionally, the death penalty is often criticized for its high financial costs and lengthy appeals process, which can prolong the suffering of both victims’ families and condemned individuals.

In my opinion, the disadvantages of the death penalty outweigh any potential benefits. The risk of executing innocent individuals and the inherent inequities in its application raise serious ethical concerns.

Instead of relying on the death penalty as a punitive measure, emphasis should be placed on improving crime prevention strategies, addressing root causes of criminal behavior, and reforming the criminal justice system to prioritize rehabilitation and reintegration.

Abolishing the death penalty aligns with principles of human rights, justice, and compassion, fostering a more humane and equitable society.

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