Death row - right or wrong?

I can appreciate that as an atheist you might not like people using the Bible to back up their argumnts but I think it's fair enough to use it. You asked what people thought of the death penalty- well whats the problem with referring to religious texts? If somebody's view is based around what they feel their particular religious tradition has to say on the issue why should they not be able to say so? My own view isnt informed by a theological standpoint but I feel its unfair that you don't recognise the contributions of those who do relate moral isues to their religious beliefs. After all, you never said at the start of the thread that you were only interested in hearing views which weren't based around religion.
I find some of the views posted by religious people on this thread not to my taste either but that really isnt the point. You are right in suggesting that some of them have quoted the Bible idly but that doesn't mean it isn't legitimate to quote it in a moral discussion at all.

My further argument was that the sraight up 'we should do what God says in the bible' approach is, in my opinion, a few hundred years behind the times as it has ghastly tortures as routine punishments.

This is irrelevant. The fact remains; the moral principles that the Bible teaches are very much applicable to todays dilemmas.

It depends which bits of the bible you refer to - some of the principles are admirable (e.g. Matthew 6, sermon on the mount "forgive men their trespasses".) This, I agree with you, is very relevant to todays society. However, my post was in response to people here who seem to have taken their inspiration from the vengeful god of the old testament. I have noticed that most of people who have posted in favour of the death penalty have cited religion as the basis of their opinion.

at least they have a basis.

Although I don't believe in God, that is a very good point.

I'd say the death setence is right. I wouldn't want someone sho has killed someone lose on my street. Once in a million years there might be room for mercy.

'Eye for eye and tooth for tooth'

at least they have a basis.

at least have the decency to register.

death penalty for murder and treason(including immigrants killing swans)

lol I couldnt believe the whole thing about not being allowed to kill swans when I read about it!
Its not the same for all animals is it, just swans? Anyone know?

Have just seen The Green Mile and it got me thinking. Today if you live in some American states and are convicted of murder you might be given a lethal injection or sent to the electric chair. Is this right or wrong?

Oh that was me above, forgot to log in.

State approved murder costs more that feeding/clothing/housing a prisoner for their entire life.

what gave you that idea.

Death penalty is wrong for 2 reasons:

1 - in a lot of cases you can never be completely sure you have the right person.

what gave you that idea.

the fees to execute someone are pretty large..