re wite this into simple word terms please still include all citations

The question of whether the United States should abolish the death penalty presents a complex issue intertwined with moral, legal, and social considerations. In the "Unit 5 Lab Learning Activity - Should the US Abolish the Death Penalty?" podcast, two pivotal arguments stand out that are worthy of closer examination.

Firstly, the podcast discusses the argument of deterrence, suggesting that the death penalty serves as a deterrent to severe crimes. However, empirical evidence often contradicts this claim. According to studies cited in the podcast, states with the death penalty do not necessarily experience lower murder rates than those without it. This raises a significant question about the efficacy of capital punishment as a criminal deterrent. As noted in the podcast, "the absence of conclusive evidence supporting deterrence calls into question the utility of the death penalty" (Podcast, Unit 5 Lab).

Secondly, the issue of racial bias within the judicial system presents a compelling argument against the death penalty. The podcast highlighted that individuals from minority backgrounds are disproportionately represented on death row, a point that aligns with studies discussed in our course materials. This systemic bias undermines the fairness and impartiality that the justice system is supposed to uphold. For example, the podcast referenced that in many cases, racial discrimination impacts sentencing outcomes, further complicating the ethical justification for maintaining the death penalty (Podcast, Unit 5 Lab).

While the podcast offers these insights, it also opens the floor for alternative perspectives, such as retributive justice, which some believe justifies capital punishment for the most heinous crimes. However, considering these perspectives requires careful analysis of whether the potential for irreversible judicial errors and inherent biases can truly be reconciled with the principles of justice.

From this discussion, a critical question arises: How can the United States ensure a fair and unbiased justice system when capital punishment remains a part of it? This question invites further debate on reformative measures within the judicial system and explores alternative punishments that uphold justice without perpetuating inequality.

In response to these points, it's crucial to reflect on both the ethical implications and the pragmatic outcomes of maintaining the death penalty in contemporary American society. The discussion not only aligns with the American government's debates on civil liberties but also resonates with current societal calls for systemic reform.