Human Rights

Torture is forbidden
 Against Torture

Article 5.
No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or
degrading treatment or punishment.

Torture in Egypt (2017)

U.S. Torture in Afghanistan (2016)

 The Ladder of Torture
A bomb has been planted somewhere in your community. Demands have been made for
money and for the release of prisoners. You have caught the admitted bomber, but that
person refuses to tell where the bomb is hidden.

1) Would you use torture in this case?

2) Does it matter whether people or property will be destroyed?
3) Does it matter how many people might die?
4) Does it matter how much time you have to interrogate?
5) Would you torture the person yourself?
6) Would you torture the person's loved ones?
7) Would you publicize the fact that you are a torturer?
 The Ladder of Torture
Where do you draw the line? When, if ever, is torture
justified?
1 Someone has planted a bomb and admits it. We must torture to save lives

2 Someone is suspected of planting a bomb. We must torture to find out.

3 Someone is close to someone suspected of planting a bomb. We must torture

the friend/relative to discover the bomber's plans.

4 Someone reports someone else who shares the same political views as the
bomber. We must torture that political ally to find out others who support them.

5 Someone has refused to tell the police where a suspect is. This person must be
tortured to make sure others don't dare do the same thing.
 Reasons against Torture
U.S. Lawyer against torture.

Five reasons against torture.