Capital Punishment

    AQA
    GCSE

    Examination of the ethical, theological, and legal dimensions of state-sanctioned execution. Analysis focuses on the tension between the Sanctity of Life (Imago Dei) and the demands of Justice (Lex Talionis), evaluating the legitimacy of retribution and deterrence within religious and secular frameworks. Scope includes the transition from historical acceptance in Abrahamic traditions to contemporary abolitionist movements and retentionist practices in theocratic and secular states.

    6
    Objectives
    4
    Exam Tips
    4
    Pitfalls
    3
    Key Terms
    4
    Mark Points

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Exodus 21:24 ('Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth').
    • Matthew 5:38 ('Turn to them the other cheek').
    • Sanctity of Life (Imago Dei - Genesis 1:27).
    • 1965 Murder (Abolition of Death Penalty) Act.
    • Amnesty International (Human Rights perspective).
    • The principle of Utility (Utilitarianism).

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "You have stated the teaching, now explain its specific impact on a believer's decision-making process."
    • "Your evaluation is one-sided; you must consider the validity of the counter-argument to access Level 4."
    • "Differentiate clearly between 'retribution' (justice) and 'revenge' (personal emotion)."
    • "Integrate a specific Source of Wisdom and Authority (SoWA) to support your second point."

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Award marks for explicit identification of ethical theories: Retribution, Deterrence, Reformation, and Protection.
    • Credit accurate citation of Sources of Wisdom: Distinguish between Old Testament 'Lex Talionis' (Exodus 21:24) and New Testament pacifism (Matthew 5:38).
    • Evaluate the validity of the 'Sanctity of Life' argument against the 'Protection of Society' argument in 12-mark responses.
    • Demonstrate understanding of non-religious perspectives (Humanism/Atheism) regarding the risk of miscarriage of justice and human rights (Amnesty International).

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡In 12-mark questions, ensure the conclusion provides a justified judgment, not just a summary of previous points.
    • 💡When using scripture, explain *how* it influences a believer's attitude, do not just quote it.
    • 💡Allocate 12-15 minutes strictly for the 12-mark 'Evaluate' question to ensure depth of analysis.
    • 💡Use the 'Farm' structure for 12-markers: For, Against, Religious Response, My Conclusion.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Confusing 'Corporal Punishment' (physical pain) with 'Capital Punishment' (execution).
    • Asserting that the death penalty is currently legal or practiced in the UK (Abolished 1965/1998).
    • Presenting a one-sided argument in the 12-mark 'Evaluate' question without considering valid counter-arguments.
    • Using vague phrases like 'Christians think killing is wrong' without referencing specific teachings or denominations.

    Study Guide Available

    Comprehensive revision notes & examples

    Read Study Guide

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    Give
    State
    Explain
    Contrast
    Evaluate
    Refer to

    Ready to test yourself?

    Practice questions tailored to this topic