Which amendment addresses the protection against cruel and unusual punishments?

The correct answer is the Eighth Amendment, which specifically prohibits the infliction of cruel and unusual punishments. This amendment is a crucial aspect of the Bill of Rights, protecting individuals from severe and disproportionate penalties. The Eighth Amendment ensures that punishments are not only just but also humane, reflecting the evolving standards of decency in a civilized society.

This protection against cruel and unusual punishments has been the basis for various important Supreme Court decisions regarding capital punishment, prison conditions, and the treatment of incarcerated individuals. The language of the Eighth Amendment highlights the importance of dignity and respect in the administration of justice, ensuring that punishment serves a rehabilitative purpose rather than merely being retributive.

Other amendments mentioned do not specifically address this issue. The First Amendment protects freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition. The Fourth Amendment guards against unreasonable searches and seizures, and the Fourteenth Amendment guarantees equal protection and due process under the law. Each of these amendments serves vital roles in American law but does not pertain to the prohibition of cruel and unusual punishments.