News Is It Possible to Oppose and Accept Torture Simultaneously?

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The discussion centers around John Gibson's controversial stance on torture, where he expresses being against torture while simultaneously arguing against outlawing it. This duality is framed as a form of "doublethink," a term derived from George Orwell's "Nineteen Eighty-Four," which refers to the ability to hold contradictory beliefs. Participants debate the implications of Gibson's position, questioning how one can advocate for the legality of torture while opposing its use. The conversation touches on the ethical dilemmas faced by government institutions like the CIA, the potential for confusion among both enemies and military personnel, and the broader moral implications of endorsing torture as a tactic in national security. Critics argue that allowing torture, even under the guise of legality, undermines ethical standards and could lead to abuses, while some defend the notion of legal ambiguity as a strategic deterrent. The discussion reflects a deep concern over the erosion of moral high ground in the context of U.S. foreign policy and counterterrorism efforts.
  • #31
Art said:
I'm not sure if this is doublespeak or just double dutch.
I've highlighted in the passage below the actual quotes from Bush. It's difficult to decipher exactly what he is saying as it appears to be self-contradictory. :confused:
It sounds as if he is saying first we do not torture then that we do where necessary to protect America and then that they don't want to be doing anything illegal which I presume is why he doesn't want this bill passed making torture illegal? Then again maybe he just doesn't have a clue what he is talking about

it sounds as if he trying to give a potentialy effective tool to his intelligence gathering people that happens to be discribed as torture and wants to advocate it while avoiding the negative connotations with the word torture
 
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  • #32
devil-fire said:
does anyone personally believe that the restrictions on torture should not apply to the cia?
it seems some are debating if the said comments are agreeable while others are just clarifying or rephrasing the comments while equally disagreeing with them
Personally speaking I think torture is abhorant and should never be used by countries which wish to be considered civilised.
The argument that it is a valid tool in the fight against terrorism is self-defeating as lowering yourself to the same level as terrorists makes you as bad as them.
 
  • #33
Yes it should... I trust your CIA less then you care to believe. On top of this I aggree with Art that it is a disgusting practise
 

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