Should we hold a public execution? S5E124 10.19.2026

Do you have a question or comment? Want to suggest a topic for our panel or be a guest on the Nova Society? Send us a message! Todd, from Texas Christian University, writes: What does it mean for American justice, and American society, that the Pentagon will publicly livestream the first U.S. military firing squad execution since World War II?” Does livestreaming an execution serve transparency, or does it risk turning capital punishment into a public spectacle? Could broadcasting Hasan’s execution create unintended risks, such as martyrdom or radicalization, despite DHS officials insisting ‘no one has to watch’? Why is the U.S. returning to a firing squad, an execution method unused by the military since 1945, and what does that say about the state of capital punishment today? Is livestreaming an execution a step toward greater transparency, or a step backward toward public executions last seen in America in 1936? What message is the Pentagon sending by executing Hasan at Fort Hood, at the same time of day the 2009 shooting began, and broadcasting it live? I know there is a lot here, but I really wanted the panel's take. Support the show The Nova Society Podcast In season 5, we will transition to 3 episodes per week and expand episode lengths for more in-depth conversations. Stay tuned for more information about our proposed weekly second channel, The Nova Society-Side Projects , where we have conversations with guests about topics important to them and to you, our listeners. Our Buzzsprout Home Landing Page Direct SMS message to the podcast from the “message us” link on our page. Support the Nova Society Email us your Questions Subscribe to the Nova Society Subscribe to our RSS Feed Join Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channe l Past episodes & read our blog Here . JCIS Apple Podcasts/ I-Tunes Spotify ...