Torture 101

The following is a scenario imagined by the author:

Dearest students,


Welcome to the latest course in our class, Torture 101. This class is designed to instruct students on the most "effective" methods on extracting confessions, real or imagined, from your captives. We will be discussing the techniques involved and include demonstrations videos wherever possible. We will then discuss methods that will make the torture method even more effective. 


1    Water-boarding.

      This is a most popular, and effective form of torture. The target's head, in particular the nose and mouth is covered with a piece of cloth. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of the United States prefers to use cellophane tape over the target.


Once the target has been so wrapped and securely strapped onto a workbench or flat table, water is then poured over his face. If necessary, the quantity and intensity with which water is being poured is increased in order to increase the speed at which the confession is obtained.


You can see a photo of the water-boarding set-up here:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2898516&l=16515caf1b&id=606887744

 The purpose of this torture method is to simulate the act of drowning. The target will feel as if they are drowning, and this creates an immediate sensation of terror and helplessness. If they breathe, they will take in water. If they hold their breath however, they will feel the grip of the head-wrap getting tighter. It's a win-win situation for the torturer.


Videos of demonstration can be seen here:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LPubUCJv58

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0SnqfFXc1k


And so, we have come to the end of today's lesson. Your assignment" Get into groups of four and discuss ways to further enhance the effectiveness of water-boarding.

Class dismissed.

"War is the terrorism of the rich and powerful." - Peter Ustinov

"War brings only suffering and misery to ordinary people, to families and mothers. It is always nameless and unknown people who suffer and moan amidst the mud and flames. In war, human life is used as a means to an end, an expendable commodity" - Daisaku Ikeda