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- Title
THE EFFECT OF THE MARSHALL HYPOTHESIS ON ATTITUDES TOWARD THE DEATH PENALTY.
- Authors
Mitchell, Alvin D.
- Abstract
Previous research has partially supported the Marshall Hypothesis' contention that most people in America support the death penalty because they are not knowledgeable of the debatable issues involved. These issues include retribution, morality, public opinion, deterrence, cost, irreversibility, and discrimination. Other topics include fear of crime and the media's exacerbation of the crime problem. All of these issues and topics can influence attitudes toward the death penalty. If Americans knew the substance of these issues and topics, their attitudes may change in regard to the death penalty. In 2003, Governor Ryan of Illinois first issued a stay of execution, then a moratorium, and later a commutation of death sentences for all inmates on death row in the state of Illinois. In addition, he fully released other inmates who were found guilty and sentenced to death. Interestingly, however, Governor Ryan, a republican believed wholeheartedly in the death penalty. Governor Ryan's attitude mirrors the contention of Justice Thurgood Marshall: If people are knowledgeable of the death penalty and its application, then support for the death penalty will wane. If Governor Ryan's attitude changed toward the death penalty after Marshall's effect, then it is possible that others will change their attitudes toward the death penalty. This study revisits the Marshall Hypothesis using students at a large, multicultural community college in the southern region of the United States.
- Subjects
UNITED States; CAPITAL punishment; CRIMINAL law; REASONING; CRIMINAL sentencing; COMMUNITY-school relationships; SOCIAL exchange; PUBLIC opinion; DISCRIMINATION (Sociology)
- Publication
Race, Gender & Class, 2006, Vol 13, Issue 1/2, p221
- ISSN
1082-8354
- Publication type
Article