es has executed 7,000 people (Katsh,
             M. Ethan, page 246). The death penalty is a standard procedure these days. Various
             methods have been acquired so justice may be served. They include lethal injection,
             electrocution, gas chambers, hangings and firing squads. Since the death penalty was
             reinstated in 1976, 77 percent of all executions have been by lethal injections, 21
             percent have been by electrocution and 2 percent have been through other methods (Whiting,
             Roger, page 167). Lethal injections are used most frequently today because it is very
             quick and easy. The electric chair, which is still used today, was introduced into
             our society in 1890. Gas chambers, hangings, and firing squads are not commonly used
             today because they are considered as cruel and unusual punishment. The death penalty
             is a typical form of punishment because it has been used on many occasions in history
             and it should continue to be used today.
             Capital punishment is a controversial issue because it is very difficult to determine
             who deserves the death penalty. The legal system closely evaluates offenders to determine
             ...