Capital Punishment An issue that has continually created tension in today's society is whether the death penalty serves as a justified and valid form of punishment. The rapid increase in the national crime rate over the twentieth century has brought about endless debate on this topic. Crime is an evident part of society, and everyone is aware that something must be done about it. Most people know the threat of crime to their lives, but the question lies in the methods and action in which it should be dealt with. Discussions over the death penalty have often been passionate and heated, and advocates of both sides claim to hold the ultimate truth.