Dear MagiK,
Just up front, FYI, I am neither pro nor con death penalty or violence as it is; I think the necessity varies from situation to situation. I've always viewed such measures to be like surgery: unpleasant, but sometimes necessary as a last resort when other conventional techniques do not or have not worked.
Now, on CRPG's...Since they're a simulation, I think a lot of people use them to work out aggressions that they would otherwise harbor in RL. Kind of like pounding a pillow or beating on a punching bag. I know that in games, I always try to find the peaceful solution (since I always play "good"; I've never been able to play "evil" for some reason; I've tried, but I always lose heart or interest). However, that doesn't prevent me from drawing the sword and whacking the baddies, if there's no other way.
I believe it's important always to maintain a healthy respect for life. I also believe when others violate that respect for others' life, it's time for a re-evaluation of the position for that particular situation. Life is not black and white, and one solution will not work for all instances, as much as we would like it to because it is easy way out.
I have more to say here, but it's time for me to go teach class. I may post more later on.
Cheers,
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