Final answer:
The Supreme Court has ruled that the death penalty must be applied judiciously and with consideration for evolving societal and ethical standards.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question addresses the application of the death penalty and its legality under different circumstances, which falls under the domain of law and judicial decisions. Notably, the Supreme Court has ruled that certain individuals, such as those with cognitive disabilities or those who were minors at the time of their crime, cannot be subjected to the death penalty. In addition, crimes that do not result in death, with the exception of crimes against the state, are also excluded from capital punishment as per the Kennedy v. Louisiana ruling. The controversy surrounding the death penalty often involves moral, ethical, and practical considerations, such as its effectiveness as a deterrent, the risk of executing innocent people, and the decision-making rules that lead to its imposition or abolition.
While exploring these nuances, one must take into consideration the evolving legal standards and societal values that inform the application of the death penalty. The Supreme Court's stance reflects a cautious approach towards its use, indicating a balance between justice and humanity, and acknowledgment of the imperfections of the legal system.