Discussion Questions

1. Texans’ traditional focus on retributive justice has resulted in extraordinarily high incarceration rates. Given the financial and social costs of such high rates, should there be a reevaluation of how Texas punishes convicted criminals? If so, how?
Texas Core Curriculum: CT, PR, SR, COMM

2. Should Texas legalize or decriminalize possession of marijuana?
Texas Core Curriculum: CT, PR, SR

3. In light of the Texas A&M study that demonstrates castle laws increase homicides while offering no deterrent effect, should the castle law in Texas be repealed?
Texas Core Curriculum: CT, PR, SR, COMM

4. How does tort reform and loser-pay laws impact small business and individuals who have been wronged by larger organizations?
Texas Core Curriculum: CT, SR, COMM

5. What are the problems with privatized prisons?
Texas Core Curriculum: CT, SR, COMM

6. How does Texas focus in death penalty cases differ from California’s?
Texas Core Curriculum: CT, SR, COMM