This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Effective torture still wrong

Sun., May 17, 2009

The Spokesman-Review

People have written letters claiming that torture works and therefore is justified. There is some serious doubt about whether it works. John McCain, in his article in Newsweek several years ago, said that it doesn’t.

Even if it might sometimes work, this is a blatant example of claiming that the end justifies the means, doing evil that good may come.

Also, if we will not abide by the Geneva Conventions, why should we expect anyone else to abide by them when dealing with our citizens?

Timothy Rolfe

Spokane

Letters Policy

The Spokesman-Review invites original letters on local topics of public interest. Your letter must adhere to the following rules:

No more than 250 words
We reserve the right to reject letters that are not factually correct, racist or are written with malice.
We cannot accept more than one letter a month from the same writer.
With each letter, include your daytime phone number and street address.
The Spokesman-Review retains the nonexclusive right to archive and re-publish any material submitted for publication.

Unfortunately, we don’t have space to publish all letters received, nor are we able to acknowledge their receipt. (Learn more.)

Submit letters using any of the following:

Our online form: Submit your letter here
Mail: Letters to the Editor
The Spokesman-Review
999 W. Riverside Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Email: letters@spokesman.com
Fax: (509) 459-5098
Phone: (509) 459-5403