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Overview
Mark Costanzo's study is a groundbreaking analysis of the thorny issue of capital punishment that takes an unblinking look at how the system really works - not just how it's supposed to work. Using hard evidence from trial arguments, case histories, and published studies, Costanzo places capital punishment in its historical and moral context before systematically stripping away every major argument in favor of the death penalty. In the process, he exposes the extravagant costs, illusory benefits, and disturbing consequences of capital punishment and builds an important new model for understanding the politics behind its practice.Editorials
New York Law Journal
JUST REVENGE gathers and summarizes vast amounts of research in a well-written and near encyclopedic fashion. Despite its point of view, the book should appeal to capital punishment proponents as well as opponents-proponents will appreciate the fair-minded and analytical style. Both sides will have in one place the arguments and difficult questions regarding capital punishment that are raised as the debate over capital punishment rages on. · NEW YORK LAW JOURNALSister Helen Prejean
This is a cogent, well-researched book. Costanzo has done his homework and handles his material evenly and fair-handedly. Plus, he must have had a grandpa or somebody to teach him storytelling because he hooks you into reading "social scientific evidence" as if you're reading a novel. Sister Helen Prejean, Author of Dead Man WalkingWilliam Bowers
Mark Costanzo has written an exceedingly engaging and ultimately compelling book on this most controversial topic. Just Revenge is a clear, cogent presentation of what we know about capital punishment as it is presently practiced in the United States. If you want an insightful, empirically grounded weighing of the pros and cons of the death penalty, this book is the best place I know to find it. William Bowers, Professor of Criminal Justice, Northeastern UniversityLibrary Journal
With 3200 condemned prisoners on death rows and executions routine in 38 states, social psychologist Costanzo contends that it is time for this country to reconsider the cost and consequences of the death penalty. His ensuing text is thoroughly researched and refreshingly easy to read. Chapters 1 and 2 give the history of executions in the United States from the first documentation in 1608. Although the author makes scant mention of the American witch trials and the treatment of slaves, he shows proof that this country was at one time more humane than Europe in its methods. In subsequent chapters, he considers whether the death penalty is cheaper than life imprisonment, is fairly applied, or is a deterrent to potential murderers. Highly recommended for its content and style, this book should be useful for academic collections in sociology and criminal justice.Frances O. Sandiford, Green Haven Correction. Facil. Lib., Stormville, N.Y.Book Details
Published
October 1, 1997
Publisher
New York : St. Martin's Press, 1997.
Pages
206
Format
Hardcover
ISBN
9780312155599