Tortured : when good soldiers do bad things

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An eye-opening exposé of America's torture regime reveals the stark contrast between public perception and the reality of what occurred. Journalist Justine Sharrock's investigation uncovers the truth behind common myths, such as the belief that waterboarding was the worst form of torture and that all Americans now reject these practices. Through interviews with young, low-ranking soldiers who witnessed the treatment of prisoners, she explores the emotional toll of torture and the surprising support for harsher methods among some small-town Americans. The narrative focuses on four soldiers, including the whistleblower from Abu Ghraib, who share their experiences of carrying out orders they were told were legal, leaving them feeling betrayed by the government they served. These firsthand accounts highlight the disconnect between the soldiers and the higher-ups—officers, politicians, and lawyers—who have yet to be held accountable. As the Department of Justice considers investigating torture under the Bush administration, Sharrock emphasizes the need for accountability. The book powerfully illustrates the psychological impact of torture on those who perpetrated it and challenges readers to confront the implications of these actions on America's reputation as a champion of fairness and freedom.