Deathwatch

[profundis]

In all likelihood, according to many news sources on the web, at right about this time or iminently soon, Saddam Hussein will be hanged (or otherwise executed - there were some reports of firing squad being chosen by the condemned - not sure if that's how it works).

I cant' feel happy about it, like some, even if I think he deserves worse.  It's nothing to be happy about, whether he deserves it or not - even if necessary its a grim necessity - like amputating a gangrenous limb - nothing to celebrate...but merely to witness and acknowledge with the gravity the event deserves.

Comments

[profundis.livejournal.com]

That's an age old question, eh? One I doubt will ever be solved simply. I'm sure it all depends on one's definition of "wrong" and "right."

Do I think its "right" to execute him? I don't think I'm a fit judge, but I do think if people of his ilk don't warrant the death penalty, then no one does. I know plenty of people think no one does...I'm not so sure about that. I think any and all consequences are called for depending on the nature and severity of the crime and the likelihood of repeat offense.

I just don't jump around and wave my flag (or someone else's burning flag) over it being carried out. Its a grave and solemn human event, not a Nascar rally.

just who is really qualified to judge?

[profundis.livejournal.com]

Well, since whatever diety there may be seems fit to leave us to it, the answer is: we are. We just have to do the best we can. Hopefully somewhere in the legal process some justice falls out. I look at the death penalty for mass murder as a kind of self-defense of mankind. Yeah, he could just be locked up in a hole somewhere and supposedly that would be more humane according to some, but IMO if you're going to take away someone's liberty forever, you really may as well just go ahead and kill them anyway - I'm sure there are many that would disagree, and I might change my tune as well if it were me - but that's fine...they don't have to agree with me.