Question

read the following selection. then, write the correct answer.

the legislature of the united states shall have the power to declare the punishment of treason, which shall consist only in levying war against the united states or any of them or in adhering to their enemies. no person shall be convicted of treason but by the testimony of two witnesses.
-journal of the constitutional convention of july 19, 1787

current law for treason: the current law for treason gives as the punishment, death or imprisonment of more than 5 years and a fine of over $10,000. in addition, that person will not be able to hold any federal office.
-18 u.s. code 2381 (june 25, 1948)

7.10) treason is defined as

read the following defense and challenge activity. then, write the correct answers.

defense or challenge
should a person who assists someone making war against the united states be given the death sentence?

challenge
treason should not be punishable by death because it is inhumane to kill another person. no one has the right to end another person’s life. only having two witnesses would not be enough. what if these people are lying about a person? the courts would then be killing an innocent person. who would want to live with that kind of guilt? life imprisonment would be a better punishment.

defense
treason should be punishable by death. this punishment would stop people from engaging in violent acts against the united states. naci mocan of the university of colorado co - authored a 2003 study that found that each execution causes at least five less killings in the long run (alfano). criminals, knowing that their actions could result in the death penalty, would more likely consider the effects of their actions and possibly reconsider. this would make the united states a safer place to live.

Explanation:

1. For the definition of treason, the source from the Constitutional Convention explicitly states the two acts that qualify as treason against the U.S.
2. For the defense/challenge question, both perspectives are valid based on the provided arguments, so both positions are presented with their supporting reasoning.

Answer:

7.10) Treason is defined as levying War against the United States, or adhering to their Enemies.

For the question "Should a person who assists someone making war against the United States be given the death sentence?":

• Challenge position: No, they should not. The death penalty is inhumane, the two-witness standard risks punishing the innocent, and life imprisonment is a better alternative.
• Defense position: Yes, they should. The death penalty deters violent acts against the U.S., and a 2003 study found each execution leads to at least five fewer long-term killings, making the country safer.