The documentary "Torturing Democracy," aired on PBS and Bill Moyers Journal, critiques the interrogation techniques used by the U.S. government, particularly during the Bush administration. It highlights the ineffectiveness of harsh methods like waterboarding, arguing that traditional psychological techniques yield better results in obtaining information. Ali Soufan, a former FBI agent, emphasizes that successful interrogations often rely on rapport rather than torture, challenging the narrative that harsh tactics are necessary. The discussion also touches on the legal status of detainees, questioning the application of rights and the classification of individuals as "enemy combatants" versus POWs. Overall, the documentary raises significant ethical and legal concerns regarding the treatment of detainees and the justification of torture.
