I think that there are at least two parts to this: the pain and suffering during initial administration (eg, the so-called beginning needlestick and then possible burning sensation as a lethal drug combination is injected; and the suffering that could occur during the execution process itself (eg, if the electric chair or hanging noose does not work properly, and has to be readministered).

Such is society's prurient interest and fascination with execution, I strongly suspect that a huge segment of the population would fork out a very big fee to watch it live on pay-per-view TV, and pay even more if there was a chance to view some real suffering.

I can't see how a needle stick/burning sensation by itself in lethal injection constitutes "cruel and unusual punishment". Nearly everyone dislikes needles and injections, but are used to them. Screwed-up electrocutions, hangings, shootings, etc would probably be more than a "little" painful, and seem very cruel to me. Personally, I oppose the death penalty in all instances.

Assume it is the accepted law of the land.

The French guillotine should be the instrument of prosecution.

#1 - death is instantaneous and no suffering to the criminal.

#2 - it is hideous, barbarak, scary and causes fear in ones heart.

#3 - it a very inexpensive cost to the community

An excellent deterrent..how would you like to have your head cut off for a capital crime ?

Froggy

I thought about adding that option... It's probably less painful than any of the rest... but wouldn't a firing squad, of sharpshooters, be just as good?

Hmmmm how do you know it's instantaneous Froggie? It takes a few minutes for the brain to die of oxygen deprivation so I've always wondered what the head thinks about for that couple of minutes. Sure would seem like a long few minutes. Or maybe it's just too much shock. Who knows.

I cannot picture any situation where I would end up on death row. That being said, I would opt for the lethal injection over the other methods described here. For my last meal, I would ask for a steak, and some serious anti anxiety meds. Peace.

A steak!! Everyone knows that steak can lead to major cholesterol problems, and subsequent premature death from heart disease. Are you trying to foil the executioner?

For me, the final meal would have to be fine dining and wining at no less than a local 5 star restaurant. Might as well exit in style.

As for anti-anxiety meds: too many and you become addicted. Not a nice thing to happen at the last minute. Perhaps sleeping tablets would be better.

I suggest that the method of execution should be to replicate as closely as possible the manner of killing that the murderer inflicted on his victim, including all violence leading up to the murder.