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I don't know. . . sounds a little like apples and oranges.
In general, the statistical data and the historical data support the notion that the threat of death does not deter crime, just as the threat of death does not deter the soldier from doing his duty . . . (bear with me). Why doesn't the threat of death stop the soldier from rucking up for the partol, pressing the attack or going over the top? At the "heart level" there is that dedication to mission and fellow soldier. At the "brain level" I think we are sure that, even though death might come, it surely won't pick me!
I think criminals think in a similiar fashion -- At the "heart level" They either are acting without thinking or they think the benefits outway the risk. At the "brain level", it's "I won't get caught and if I do, they won't actually execute me."
In the specific instance cited, The Gov made it very personal. If you do this I will convene the legislature and they will pass a law just for you and you will be executed.
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