Armstrong & Getty On Demand – Episode: "I'm Trying To Make A Case For Public Hangings" Release Date: June 4, 2025

Introduction to the Debate

In this provocative episode of Armstrong & Getty On Demand, hosts Jack Armstrong, Joe Getty, and Katie Green delve into a contentious and timely discussion: the proposition of reinstating public hangings. The conversation unfolds with a blend of humor and serious analysis, challenging listeners to reconsider historical practices in the context of modern justice systems.

Public Executions: A Historical Perspective

Katie Green introduces the topic by referencing Placerville, California, formerly known as "Hangtown," highlighting its historical significance in public executions. She states:

"...they'd bring criminals out who, who deserved the death penalty and they'd hang them there and everybody gather around and watch."
[03:26] Katie Green

Jack Armstrong concurs, expressing discomfort with the idea but acknowledging the cultural shift:

"I think the cloaking, the hiding of executions is a bad idea."
[05:05] Jack Armstrong

Cultural Shifts and Their Consequences

The hosts explore how societal changes have moved away from public displays of punishment:

• Katie Green emphasizes the contrast between past and present, noting that such public acts were once normalized but are now unthinkable.

• Jack Armstrong argues that the deterrent effect of executions diminishes when they are no longer visible to the public:

  "If it is so cloaked in secrecy and quiet... I mean that has zero deterrent effect."
  [05:28] Jack Armstrong

The Deterrence Debate

A significant portion of the discussion centers on whether public executions serve as an effective deterrent:

• Katie Green raises the point that witnessing punishments could instill a stronger sense of justice and consequence.

• Jack Armstrong counters with the idea that the obscurity of modern executions fails to achieve the intended deterrent effect.

Modern Implications and Ethical Considerations

The conversation shifts to broader implications of reinstating public hangings:

• Jack Armstrong expresses ambivalence about the death penalty itself, questioning the morality of government-sanctioned execution.

• Katie Green reflects on how shielding society, especially children, from harsh realities like executions might contribute to increased anxiety and fear.

  "People are scared and anxious."
  [12:10] Katie Green

Historical Practices vs. Contemporary Society

Katie shares anecdotes illustrating how societal norms have evolved:

• Katie Green discusses adopting past practices, such as educational demonstrations of butchering, to instill a clearer understanding of life and death.

  "I'm gonna figure it out today. I'm gonna go down to the grade school and I'll shoot a number of animals right in front of the children."
  [12:10] Katie Green

• The hosts debate the potential psychological impacts of reintroducing such practices, weighing educational benefits against ethical concerns.

Broader Societal Reflections: Male Friendships Crisis

In an unexpected pivot, the hosts transition to another pressing issue: the decline of male friendships in America. Referencing a 2024 study by the Survey Center on American Life, Katie points out:

"Only a quarter of men reported having six or more close friends... The zero crowd went from... roughly three to 17 percent."
[30:00] Katie Green

Jack Armstrong and Katie Green discuss possible reasons, including increased screen time, societal expectations of masculinity, and the erosion of traditional bonding activities. This segment underscores the interconnectedness of societal practices and individual well-being.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode winds down, the hosts reflect on the complexities of societal change:

• Jack Armstrong highlights the need for balance between maintaining order and preserving humane treatment within the justice system.

• Katie Green emphasizes the importance of fostering genuine human connections to combat the growing sense of isolation among men.

The episode concludes without definitive answers, instead encouraging listeners to ponder the ramifications of reintroducing archaic practices and addressing modern social issues.

Notable Quotes:

• "If it is so cloaked in secrecy and quiet... I mean that has zero deterrent effect."
  — Jack Armstrong [05:28]

• "People are scared and anxious."
  — Katie Green [12:10]

• "Only a quarter of men reported having six or more close friends... The zero crowd went from... roughly three to 17 percent."
  — Katie Green [30:00]

This episode of Armstrong & Getty offers a compelling examination of historical justice practices and their relevance today, intertwined with a critical look at emerging social challenges. Through engaging dialogue and thought-provoking insights, the hosts encourage listeners to reflect on the evolution of societal norms and their impact on both collective and individual well-being.