Minor Analysis Paper #1: Part 2

Article: “In Defense of Torture” by Sam Harris
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sam-harris/in-defense-of-torture_b_8993.html

Sam Harris in his editorial “In Defense of Torture” insists that torture is necessary in circumstances where inaction jeopardizes a greater number. He reminds us that in any war “collateral damage” is unavoidable. The emphasis is placed on the fact that by targeting a specific class of suspects/terrorists other innocent people are saved that would have otherwise been caught up or killed in the conflict. Confessions of the tortured may be false, he admits. However, any information that would save potential victims is in our interest. Harris supports reaffirms that the misapplication of torture should be less troubling than that of collateral damage.

For it: This article presents a strong argument in favor of torture. Upfront Harris admits that torture is neither an ideal situation nor something to be misused. However, in my opinion, the strength of the piece was in the choice readers are presented with: should innocent civilians suffer before militant prisoners are subjected to harm? The example of Iraq and Afghanistan illustrate the discrepancy between the millions who have died in crossfire as compared to the few terrorists and suspects who have had their rights protected in detention centers. As Harris explained, the judgments society places on torture are based solely between associated with the close contact between the people. People don’t want to feel like they are getting their hands dirty.

Against it: In his argument, Harris stated, “if we are unwilling to torture, we should be unwilling to go to war.” To me, he has the entire situation confused. Torture of innocent people is the worst possible side effect of war. Granted, some intelligence and lives probably have been spared. However, even Harris admitted that torture has tarnished the America’s international image. While he downplays the importance of distance in torture compared to collateral damage, I find it to be one of the most important aspects. The scariest aspect is that the torturers would be empowered. At that point, what kind of society do we live in?

Rhetorical situation: Sam Harris is a noted author. He wrote the editorial in October of 2005 when many of the details surrounding the Guantanamo Bay detention facility and its abuses were being discovered. At that time there were a disproportionate number of critics compared to supporters. He wanted to express a favorable opinion of torture to a largely hostile public. Harris admits that it is hard to take a pro-torture stance. In many ways, I think his readers questioned his character and values. He was careful to note that he supported limited and controlled torture as well. I would classify the Huffington Post to as a reputable newspaper. I recognized that it was an editorial, but Harris’s background added credibility to his article. His books and expertise on the conflict of religion led me to reconsider what he was expressing in the article. I found myself evaluating the article in a new light after reading about his qualifications as somewhat of a religious authority. It helped in his favor.