The influence of knowledge on reasons for death penalty opinions: An experimental test

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Abstract
Despite more than 50 years of scientific polling and a substantial body of research, an understanding of American opinion on the death penalty remains problematic. This exploratory study sheds further light on the subject by examining the influence of knowledge on reasons that people give for their opinions. Results of the study show that participation in a death penalty class did not affect significantly five of six reasons for opinions regarding the death penalty (general deterrence, retribution, incapacitation, religious reasons, and support for law enforcement). Administrative considerations were the only reason influenced significantly by participation in the class. Implications of the findings are discussed.