Question

Protagonists of human rights vehemently oppose capital punishment. Their opposition stems mainly from three reasons. Firstly, man cannot terminate what he cannot generate. Secondly, the function of punishment is to reform the culprit. Thirdly, a culprit should be given an opportunity to repent. Admittedly, death penalty fails on all three counts. However, the defenders argue that a person is punished because he has to pay for his deeds. Reformation or repentance, according to them, is peripheral. Hence, death penalty is admissible. 

Which one of the following is the focus of this debate?

विकल्प

• Man's rights and privileges

• Nature and purpose of punishment

• Prevention of crime

• Mercy and revenge

Answer 1

Nature and purpose of punishment

Explanation:

The debate talks about the merits and demerits of capital punishment as a form of punishment. Those who oppose it the talk of man’s rights and privileges. The defenders talk about punishing the criminal. However, these are reason that both parties use to put forth their opinion regarding capital punishment. So, 'Nature and purpose of punishment' is the correct choice.