Topic > Torture and Enhanced Torture - 1797

The ongoing debate between torture and enhanced interrogation techniques is, has been, and always will be a controversial topic. Whether it is political opinions, cultures, different world leaders or citizens and society in general, the issue will always be of great importance. Some believe the two are the same, while others believe they differ. In any case, the methods and effectiveness are the main points of concern. Over time and as our world leaders have changed, definitions, legislation and methods have evolved and changed. Definitions often vary depending on political opinions and an agreed-upon meaning will never be defined. The debate centers on pain and suffering with respect to injuries, as well as effectiveness, which will be discussed later. As perfectly explained in an article written by Phillip A. Quigley, “…a new battle has emerged to the forefront of American media attention: those who supported the continued implementation of “enhanced interrogations” versus those who vehemently opposed to "torture" and who called for its immediate end. The division was based on political, legal and ethical grounds, and those involved in the debate were inextricably entrenched in their respective positions. This battle persists today, even though the GWOT is switched to the so-called "Overseas Contingency Operation" and the new presidential administration of President Barrack Obama has taken office. Whether or not these policies will change is yet to be determined, but so far the debate has been ripe with academics, lawyers, commentators of the media and politicians who have espoused every form of opinion and recommendation.” Most democratic/liberal views believe that torture and enhanced interrogation techniques are a thing… middle of paper… by any means necessary” . This is an individual who was on the front lines of the interrogations, saw all the methods and practices and is more than aware of the threat level of the people he was in contact with. For him to have this opinion and express it in the nature that he did through interviews and his book, this is a critical viewpoint that should be better noted throughout the story. Torture versus enhanced interrogation is, has been, and always will be an extremely complex debate not only throughout our country, but also throughout the world. In some ways, it may be a necessary evil, but an impartial and accurate decision on the efficacy behind it will never be reached. Throughout history, as times have changed, previously unthinkable crimes have occurred, and punishments and methods of justice have evolved and will continue to do so.