Well, isn't this deeply disturbing?

[kandrathe]

Torture is a means to an end.

So is genocide. Both are banned by international law. I just think you have to draw a clear line about what is acceptable behavior. Sure, the enemy has and will do far more heinous things. I just don't think we should toss away the moral high ground, our values, and whatever shreds of dignity we have remaining by stooping to barbarism.

Why should we outlaw or condemn a form of interrogation that is often highly successful? Because it clashes with the American public's ethical and moral fiber?

Um, yes? What do we stand for? I guess I would rather walk away and lose with dignity than sell my soul for victory.

If these prisoners were armed on a battle field I might agree with you. That is not the case, some of them were just picked up off the streets in the wrong place at the wrong time. Given a different place and time, it could be you standing on the stool, wired up, with the hood on. If you can justify it there, then someone can justify it here.