When I see the debate turning towards whether it works or not, I just want to vomit
The point is not whether it works or not.
The point is that it is illegal under International law.
There is a reason why it was banned in the Geneva Conventions.
There is a reason for Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment
There is a reason why all sane people regard it as obscene.
It has nothing to do whether it works or not, that's the road to collective insanity.
Goddammit that argument makes me want to hurl.
No exceptional circumstances whatsoever, whether a state of war or a threat of war, internal political in stability or any other public emergency, may be invoked as a justification of torture.
Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, United Nations, 1984
4:55 AM PT: Oh and Scalia can go fuck himself about torture not being excluded by the constitution to justify breaking international treaties and conventions. Neither was slavery for that matter.