John Bessler

Carol Steiker and John Bessler, experts on capital punishment, dive deep into the complexities of the Eighth Amendment. They explore what defines cruel and unusual punishment and discuss its historical roots, including significant figures like Cesare Beccaria. The conversation touches on legal challenges surrounding specific cases, particularly the infamous firing squad execution. Racial disparities in the death penalty and landmark rulings like Furman v. Georgia highlight the ongoing moral debates surrounding justice and punishment in America.