While there is little evidence that the federal capital punishment system treats minorities unfairly, some may argue that the death penalty systems in certain states may be discriminatory. One such state is Maryland. In May 2001, then-Governor Parris Glendening instituted a moratorium on the use of capital punishment in Maryland in light of concerns that it may be unevenly applied to minorities, especially African-Americans. In 2000, Governor Glendening commissioned University of Maryland Professor of Criminology Ray Paternoster to study the possibility of racial discrimination in the application of the death penalty in Maryland. The results of Professor Paternoster's study found that black defendants who murder white victims are substantially more likely to be charged with a capital crime and sentenced to death.

Is there any rhetorial devices used in this passage?

One rhetorical device used in this passage is the appeal to authority. The passage cites the University of Maryland Professor of Criminology Ray Paternoster's study as evidence to support the claim that racial discrimination may exist in the application of the death penalty in Maryland. The mention of Governor Glendening commissioning the study further adds to the credibility of the argument.

Yes, there are several rhetorical devices used in this passage.

1. Repetition: The phrase "capital punishment" is repeated multiple times to emphasize the topic being discussed.

2. Alliteration: The phrase "federal capital punishment system" uses the repetition of the "p" sound, creating a melodic effect.

3. Appeal to authority: The mention of Governor Parris Glendening and University of Maryland Professor Ray Paternoster lends credibility to the argument being made.

4. Contrast: The passage contrasts the treatment of minorities in the federal capital punishment system with the potential discriminatory practices in certain states, specifically mentioning Maryland.

5. Loaded language: The phrases "unevenly applied," "especially African-Americans," "racial discrimination," and "charged with a capital crime" are emotionally charged and intended to evoke a strong response.