Torture is a human right issue. It has been used by by governments to gather information, punish, or obtain a confession. There has never been a period of human history without torture, but it was not until 1949 that it became illegal under the Geneva ConventionsLinks to an external site. (laws that govern what should allowed to be used in war and what is outlawed). In 1987 it became outlawed under international Human Rights lawLinks to an external site. (laws that define the rights that all people should have globally). Here is the official definition of torture:
In the Convention Against Torture, "torture" means any act by which severe pain or suffering, whether physical or mental, is intentionally inflicted on a person for such purposes as obtaining from him or a third person information or a confession, punishing him for an act he or a third person has committed or is suspected of having committed, or intimidating or coercing him or a third person, or for any reason based on discrimination of any kind, when such pain or suffering is inflicted by or at the instigation of or with the consent or acquiescence of a public official or other person acting in an official capacity. It does not include pain or suffering arising only from, inherent in or incidental to lawful sanctions.
It is often stated that in order to maintain national security we need to violate some of our ideals/laws/rights. As the social conditions change so do peoples views on policy. Let's look at some different critiques of the use of torture.
To frame your thoughts, consider the following perspectives:
Arguments Supporting Torture
- Michael IgnatieffLinks to an external site. argues that torture may be a “lesser evil” in certain contexts, particularly when the United States uses it for ostensibly benevolent goals, like promoting democracy.
- Alan Dershowitz supports the use of torture in exceptional cases, such as the “ticking time bomb” scenario, where immediate threats require urgent action (Boston GlobeLinks to an external site.).
Arguments Opposing Torture
- Major WrightLinks to an external site., a U.S. military defense attorney, argues that exposing and addressing the use of torture strengthens the rule of law and reflects our national values.
- PBS: Secrets, Politics, and TortureLinks to an external site. examines how post-9/11 torture practices failed to enhance national security and often proved counterproductive.
- John McCain shared personal insights into the inefficacy of torture, emphasizing that those subjected to it are unlikely to provide reliable information (Google DriveLinks to an external site.).
- Conor GeartyLinks to an external site. highlights the hypocrisy of democratic nations using torture, calling it an “escalation of inhumanity” and a betrayal of human rights principles.
This discussion challenges you to evaluate the moral, legal, and practical dimensions of torture, using evidence and critical thinking.
Instructions
Post: (250 word minimum)
- Review the resources provided in both sections above, including PBS: Secrets, Politics, and TortureLinks to an external site..
- Take a stance: Should policymakers allow for the use of torture? Support your argument using evidence from the provided resources or additional research.