This important book is sure to foster informed public discussion about the death penalty by deepening readers' understanding of how religious beliefs and perspectives shape this contentious issue. Featuring a fair, balanced appraisal of its topic, "Religion and the Death Penalty brings thoughtful religious reflection to bear on current challenges facing the capital justice system.

One look at the list of contributors reveals the significance of this book. Here are recognized leaders from the academy, government, and public life who also represent a wide range of faith commitments, including Jewish, Christian, and Muslim. Like many people of faith and goodwill, the authors disagree with one another, variously supporting retention, reform, or abolition of capital punishment. As a result, the book presents the most comprehensive and well-rounded religiously oriented discussion of the death penalty available.

Contributors: Khaled Abou El Fadl
Victor Anderson
Jeanne Bishop
J. Budziszewski
John D. Carlson
Mario M. Cuomo
E. J. Dionne Jr.
Avery Cardinal Dulles, S. J.
Eric P. Elshtain
Richard W. Garnett
Stanley Hauerwas
Frank Keating
Gilbert Meilaender
David Novak
Erik C. Owens
George H. Ryan
Antonin Scalia
Paul Simon
Glen H. Stassen
Michael L. Westmoreland-White
Beth Wilkinson