Public Attitudes Toward the Death Penalty in South Africa: A Life or Death Decision

• NCJ Number: 164582
• Journal: Acta Criminologica Volume: 9 Issue: 1 Dated: (1996) Pages: 108-113
• Author(s): A Parekh; C de la Rey
• Date Published: 1996
• Length: 6 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: South Africa

Annotation

This report on a survey of public attitudes toward the death penalty in South Africa shows that attitudes vary by respondent demographic characteristics.

Abstract

The survey was conducted in the latter half of 1990. The survey method consisted of mailing questionnaires to a representative sample of whites, "coloureds," Indians, and Africans living in and around the city of Durban. A total of 333 usable questionnaires were returned, yielding a response rate of 10 percent. The questionnaire measured attitudes toward the application of the death penalty, reasons for support of the death penalty, reasons for abolishing the death penalty, and knowledge and awareness of legislation on the death penalty. The strongest response for the entire sample was that the death penalty should be applied more often (48 percent). A Pearson chi- square test showed statistically significant differences on the variables of race, income, and religion. Of the total sample that felt the death penalty should be applied more often, 23 percent were Indians, 18 percent were whites, 7 percent Africans, and 2 percent "coloureds." Support for the less frequent application and abolition was strongest for Africans (13 percent and 8 percent respectively). Respondents with high incomes were more likely than others to support the increased application of the death penalty. Of the sample that supported an increase in the application of the death penalty, 27 percent were Christians, 14 percent were Hindus, and 10 percent were Muslim. Notably, Christians were also more likely than Hindus and Muslims to support the less frequent application of the death penalty or its abolition. The strongest rationale for supporting the death penalty was the belief that the penalty is a deterrent to others who contemplate committing violent crimes (65 percent). The prevalent reason for supporting abolition of the death penalty was a belief that there could be errors in convictions. The authors advise that policymakers give immediate attention to educating the public on issues associated with the death penalty, so as to ensure that future policy is based on opinions and attitudes of a public that is well informed. This will help to ensure widespread public support for any changes or amendments to the existing policy on the death penalty. 4 tables, 2 notes, and 6 references