Everything Everywhere Daily · Friday, August 7, 2026
Despite the intent of public executions to deter crime, historical data and modern examples, such as in Iran, show this is often ineffective. Research in Iran suggests that witnessing public hangings can lead to increased violence and reduced compassion rather than intended deterrence.
“Yet despite public executions being designed to deter crime or unwanted behaviors, that was not always the case.”
“In Iran, sanctioned public executions are carried out by hanging.”
“Research published by the Islamic Republic News Agency in 2017 found that those who witness the event typically do not take the intended lesson from the execution.”
“Instead, they may become more prone to violence.”