Degree Name
Master of Arts
Graduate Program
Criminology and Criminal Justice
Advisor
West, Matthew P.
Abstract
The current paper reviews the key points of research on the impact of defendant race, victim race, and victim gender on capital sentencing decisions. Each of these factors, as well as a theoretical framework applicable to the factors of defendant race, victim race, and victim gender on capital sentencing decisions, are explored and examined in this effort. All of the sections are intended to complement each other and provide a more comprehensive look into how and why demographic characteristics may shape capital punishment outcomes and where to go from here. It is important to understand disparities in capital punishment because understanding them may help us to limit them which would better enforce constitutional rights.