With 27 out of 50 American states having the death penalty in place, a lingering debate remains regarding its morality: should the death penalty be legal? In this volume, viewpoints from both proponents and opponents are explored and examined, incorporating how social class and financial status influence access to justice. Proponents argue that harsh penalties deter crime and provide justice for victims, while opponents highlight systemic inequalities. Each viewpoint presents research-informed perspectives on the state of incarceration today, providing an analysis of the current American political climate while drawing comparisons with practices in other countries. This volume weaves together empirical data and personal narratives that have enabled citizens to confront the ethical dilemmas surrounding punishment.