The Complex Legacy of Furman v. Georgia

This chapter examines the landmark Supreme Court case Furman v. Georgia, which led to a temporary abolition of the death penalty in the United States. It discusses the intricacies of the ruling, including the divided opinions of justices and the subsequent reintroduction of capital punishment due to public outcry. The chapter also explores the evolving legal landscape, emphasizing the need for jury discretion and the treatment of mitigating evidence within the context of capital punishment.