Explore what alternatives to death might achieve the retributive, deterrent and incapacitative goals of capital punishment. Explain which you think would work the best and why. Be specific and back up your opinions
Sample Solution
Alternatives to death in order to achieve the retributive, deterrent and incapacitative goals of capital punishment could include life imprisonment with no chance of parole, long-term solitary confinement, hard labor or community service.
Of these alternatives, I believe that life imprisonment with no chance of parole is most likely to be effective. This alternative provides retribution against the offender since they will have been removed from society and unable to harm anyone else for their entire life. Additionally, it serves as a powerful deterrent because it provides a clear consequence for those who commit serious crimes and can dissuade people from committing them in the first place. Finally, this alternative also achieves incapacitating effects since offenders are completely cut off from society so they cannot re-offend while incarcerated.