I think there are some ways of being killed that are more frightening than others, to most people. Being beheaded is one, despite Dr. Guillotine’s original alleged desire to create a more human method of execution. We tend to see it as more savage than hanging, gassing, firing squad, etc. despite the instantaneous nature, as compared to the potential lingering, painful death of the other three.

I’m not sure why, but it seems to be true.