Those who support the death penalty say it deters criminals from committing violent acts, while others argue that executions do not deter crime. Through objective discussion, numerous direct quotes, and full-color illustrations, this title examines: What Are the Origins of the Death Penalty Controversy? How Do Executions Affect the Crime Rate? Does the Legal Process Hamper the Death Penalty's Deterrence Effect? Does Fear of the Death Penalty Deter Would-be Criminals? and Are Alternative Punishments More Effective than the Death Penalty?