PTE Summarize Written Text Task Sample 300

Read the passage below and summarize it using one sentence. Type your response in the box at the bottom of the screen. You have 10 minutes to finish this task. Your response will be judged on the quality of your writing and on how well your response presents the key points in the passage.

The Death Penalty: Ethics and Effectiveness

The death penalty, also known as capital punishment, remains a contentious issue worldwide, raising profound ethical, legal, and moral questions. Proponents argue that it serves as a deterrent against heinous crimes, provides justice for victims and their families, and upholds societal values of accountability and retribution.

However, opponents of the death penalty raise concerns about its moral implications, potential for wrongful convictions, and lack of proven deterrence effect. They argue that the irreversibility of death makes any miscarriage of justice inexcusable, and the risk of executing innocent individuals cannot be justified by its purported benefits.

Moreover, studies suggest that the death penalty disproportionately affects marginalized communities, exacerbating racial and socioeconomic disparities within the criminal justice system. Critics also question the fairness and impartiality of capital sentencing procedures, citing cases of inadequate legal representation, bias among jurors, and systemic flaws in the judicial process.

Furthermore, international human rights organizations and legal experts advocate for the abolition of the death penalty, citing its violation of the right to life and its inconsistent application across jurisdictions.

In conclusion, the debate surrounding the death penalty reflects complex considerations of morality, justice, and human rights. While some argue for its necessity in addressing the most egregious crimes, others advocate for its abolition in favor of more humane and effective approaches to criminal justice. Ultimately, the decision regarding the death penalty requires careful examination of its ethical implications and empirical evidence to ensure that justice is served fairly and equitably.

Summary:

The death penalty, while advocated for its deterrent effect and retributive justice, faces opposition due to ethical concerns, potential for wrongful convictions, disproportionate impact on marginalized communities, and inconsistencies in application, prompting debates over its morality and effectiveness in the criminal justice system.