The paucity of relevant theoretical and empirical sources required the use of an inductive research strategy that used a series of variables which focused on the legal process related to capital punishment, the execution itself, and the public's reaction to the execution. The study used the Probability Sample Files of the Human Relations Area Files, which is a stratified probability sample of 60 cultures, largely 'primitive societies,' contained within the larger group of cultures that compose the Human Relations Area Files. Almost all the cultures analyzed used the death penalty, making it a 'cross-cultural universal.' Crimes that directly threaten people -- homicide, stealing, and violations of community religious norms -- are the most common capital crimes. Disposal of the wrongdoer is the most frequent rationale for capital punishment, and capital punishment is believed appropriate by most members of the cultures studied. The theories developed to explain the occurrence of capital punishment and its various forms pertain to cultures at three levels of political complexity. 'Group survival' theory, which pertains to group-threatening acts, is relevant to political systems labeled 'bands.' 'Confrontation' theory, which involves political leaders' executing their enemies, pertains to political systems called 'tribes.' 'Political legitimacy' theory, which posits that capital punishment is used by young states to control the population, pertains to systems called 'chiefdoms,' 'despotic states,' and 'mature states.' Appended data, chapter notes, 88 references, and subject index.