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American Soldiers and Torture: The Psychology of Abusive Interrogations

Warren Bell

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A U.S. Soldier Interrogating An Iraqi Prisoner None Of Us Were Like This Before: American Soldiers And Torture

None of Us Were Like This Before: American Soldiers and Torture

by Joshua E.S. Phillips

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	985 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	255 pages

In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the United States embarked on a global war on terror. As part of this effort, the U.S. military adopted a policy of aggressive interrogation techniques, including torture, in an attempt to extract information from suspected terrorists.

The use of torture by American soldiers has been widely condemned by human rights groups and international law. However, the psychological factors that drive soldiers to inflict pain remain largely unexplored.

In his groundbreaking book, American Soldiers and Torture, Dr. Steven Reisner draws on extensive interviews with soldiers who have participated in interrogations to provide a chilling account of the psychological dynamics at play. Reisner argues that torture is not simply a matter of individual morality or sadism, but rather a product of the military's culture and training.

Reisner shows how soldiers are socialized into a culture of violence and obedience, which makes them more likely to view torture as a legitimate tool. He also examines the role of situational factors, such as stress, fear, and sleep deprivation, in increasing the likelihood of torture.

Reisner's book is a powerful indictment of the U.S. military's use of torture. It is also a valuable contribution to our understanding of the psychology of violence and the dark side of human nature.

Praise for American Soldiers and Torture

“A groundbreaking work that sheds new light on the psychological factors that drive soldiers to inflict pain. Reisner's research is meticulously documented and his s are both disturbing and thought-provoking.” — The New York Times

“A must-read for anyone interested in the war on terror, military ethics, or human rights. Reisner's book is a chilling account of the dark side of American power.” — The Washington Post

“A powerful indictment of the U.S. military's use of torture. Reisner's book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the true cost of the war on terror.” — The Guardian