Which amendment prohibits cruel and unusual punishment?

• A. First Amendment
• B. Fourth Amendment
• C. Sixth Amendment
• D. Eighth Amendment

Answer: (D)

The important idea here is that some protections limit how punishment can be carried out, ensuring it is humane and not excessive. The Eighth Amendment does exactly that: it bars cruel and unusual punishments and also limits excessive fines and bail. This means punishments must be fair and proportionate to the crime, avoiding torture or barbaric methods.

That makes it the best answer because it directly addresses how punishment is applied in the justice system. The other amendments protect different rights—for example, freedom of expression and religion; protection against searches without warrants; and rights to counsel and a fair trial. These are crucial for due process, but they do not set the standard about cruel or unusual punishment.