Description
Book SynopsisUnderstanding Torture surveys the massive literature surrounding torture, arguing that, once properly understood, there can be no defence of torture in any circumstances. By exploring the history, psychology, and politics of torture ù as well as the current philosophical defences of it ù Wisnewski provides a comprehensive account of why torture ought to be categorically rejected.
Trade ReviewWisnewski has written a wonderful book to serve as a basis for seminar discussions. The level of detailed discussion of standard arguments and the richness of the references and substantial quotations make this an ideal primer; and the impassioned, principled stance combined with a clear intent to be fair minded about the reach of arguments makes it a great example to students. Those minded to agree or disagree will have received plenty of material to help them form and refine their positions and arguments. -- Brian Feltham, University of Reading Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews Wisnewski has written a wonderful book to serve as a basis for seminar discussions. The level of detailed discussion of standard arguments and the richness of the references and substantial quotations make this an ideal primer; and the impassioned, principled stance combined with a clear intent to be fair minded about the reach of arguments makes it a great example to students. Those minded to agree or disagree will have received plenty of material to help them form and refine their positions and arguments.
Table of ContentsAcknowledgments; 1. The Persistence of Torture: An Affliction That Won't Go Away; 2. The History of Torture: A Sketch; 3. The Wrongness of Torture: Identifying Torture's Unique Despicability; 4. How Torture Unmakes Worlds; 5. Thinking Through Torture's Temptations, Part One: Arguments for Torture; 6. Thinking Through Torture's Temptations, Part Two: Arguments Against Torture; 7. The Psychology of Torture; 8. The Politics of Torture: Orwellian Themes in the Bush League; 9. Hope Amid Pessimism: Concluding Reflections on Ending Torture; Bibliography; Useful Websites; Index.
