article critique 138

Using the attached instructions, write a short argument one paragraph critique for the following passage:

Argument for Critical Review

Capital punishment should be abolished. This is because it is just another way our country oppresses non-European, non-white males. Another reasons is that capital punishment is essentially unjust. If over 80% of death-row inmates are African-American males, then capital punishment is just another way of oppressing non-European, non-white males. Since over 80% of death-row inmates are African-American males, it must be the case that capital punishment is just another way this country oppresses non-European, non-white males. There is other evidence for our systematic oppression of non-European, non-white males as well: Since a disproportionate number of African-American males are below the poverty line, and since one out of every two African- American males will be victims of a violent crime before they are 21 years old. And since it is more likely that an African-American male in a big city will be shot than graduate from college, then it is very likely the case that capital punishment is just another way we have of oppressing non-European, non-white males.

Besides there are many instances where the state has mistakenly executed otherwise innocent persons. In addition, once capital punishment has been administered, it cannot be taken back. Moreover, the state is no better than a murderer itself it if operates on the principle of an “eye for an eye.” For all these reasons it follows that capital punishment is essentially unjust. If capital punishment should be abolished, then Congress should pass a Constitutional amendment banning it. Capital punishment should be abolished. Therefore, Congress should pass a Constitutional amendment banning capital punishment.