Essay about Is Torture Ever Acceptable - 694 Words

I do not believe in torture and consider it something barbaric and inhuman. Therefore I would say that torture is never acceptable under any circumstances, and regardless of what the consequences might be. Torture and civilization do not mix because the latter highly emphasizes the value of human beings as it is something intrinsic. Democracy also does not mix with torture because democratic societies believe in human rights and equality. My point is that the end does not justify the means when it comes to the torture of a human being. September 11, 2001 was a turning point in not only the history of the United States but also the history of the world. It has put the commitment of the civilized world with human rights into test. After†¦show more content†¦However, there are two basic arguments about this issue I am going to talk about. The first argument considers that we can use torture as the last resort. Consequentialists, who hold the first argument, consider that no action is bad in itself. According to them, morality of actions is determined by their consequences. Thus, in the above mentioned scenario the good† (saving innocent people) must be weighed up against â€Å"the bad† (torturing the suspect) in order to make a decision on the correct course of action. The second argument considers that torture is not acceptable under any circumstances and regardless what the consequences might be. Deontologists, who hold this argument, consider that torture cannot be justified because the acceptance of any form of torture as an effective means to extract information from suspects, would universalize and legalize torture. The act of torture is wrong because torturing a person for information is to use them as a means to exploit them. Personally, I think that the â€Å"ticking bomb† scenario is very narrow and is deceptively used to legalize torture as an acceptable means of eliciting information from suspects in critical situations. There are several considerations that should be taken into account before trying to legalize the act of torture; the scenario of the â€Å"ticking bomb† can be challenged and rests only on assumptions. Exceptions will pave the way before the wide implementationShow MoreRelatedIs Torture Ever Acceptable?885 Words   |  4 PagesIs torture ever acceptable? According to the UN Convention Against Torture, any infliction of torture1 i.e. waterboarding is banned under international law and the domestic laws of most countries in the 21st century. The point of contention is whether torture under any circumstances should be entirely prohibited. 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Many cultures throughout history, such as the Romans, Jews, Egyptians, and many more have used torture as part of their justice and law system. One of the Roman’s torturing methods was crucifixionRead MoreEssay on The Morality of Torture1338 Words   |  6 PagesThe Morality of Torture The moral issue of torture is one that has come under scrutiny by many national and international organizations as of late. To talk about torture one must really understand what torture is. As taken from Dictionary.com â€Å"1.a. Infliction or severe physical pain as a means of punishment or coercion. b. An instrument or a method for inflicting such pain. 2. Excruciating physical or mental pain; agony. 3. Something causing severe pain or anguish.† This is just the literal