Joseph Guillotin, namesake of the guillotine, opposed capital punishment but promoted the device as a more humane alternative to the brutal execution methods of his time when abolition proved impossible.

a political leader who seeks support by appealing to desires and prejudices rather than reasoned…

to officially announce or make widely known (a law, decree, etc.).

optimistic or positive, especially in a difficult situation.

strong preferences or inclinations for something.

a whispering or rustling sound.

emitting light as a result of being heated; passionate or brilliant.

intended to instruct or teach, sometimes excessively.

behaving as though one is superior to others; haughty.

complaining in a petulant or whining manner.

subject to debate, dispute, or uncertainty.