The Torture Memos: Rationalizing the Unthinkable

The Torture Memos: Rationalizing the Unthinkable

a talk about Prof. David Coles new book by
Professor Philippe Sands QC

Monday 9 November, 6pm

The shocking secret memos used to justify brutal CIA torture tactics after 9/11

About the book:
Since the ‘war on terror’ was launched in the wake of 9/11, individuals, including British citizens, suspected of posing a threat to western security, have been subjected to indefinite imprisonment and brutal treatment in overseas detention facilities, where all entreaties for justice are denied. Global outrage and furious questions about the collusion of international agencies such as MI5 followed, but all official reports have been kept firmly under wraps. Now, for the first time, secret memos issued by the US Department of Justice, revealing in graphic detail the barbaric interrogation techniques used on prisoners, have been compiled in one remarkable volume.

This collection gives readers an unfiltered look at the tactics approved for use in the secret prisons – including forcing detainees to stay awake for eleven days straight, slamming them against walls, stripping them naked, locking them in a small box with insects to manipulate their fears, and, of course, waterboarding – as well as the incredible arguments advanced to justify them.

David Cole’s introductory essay explains the story behind the memos and presents a compelling case that the law was twisted to conform to the CIA’s abusive, illegal conduct, arguing that accountability for these crimes is essential if justice is ever to be realised.

"A must-read for anyone trying to reconstruct and understand how the US ended up using medieval torture methods in the 21st Century."   Clive Stafford Smith – Director of Reprieve and author of Bad Men: Guantanamo Bay and the Secret Prisons

“The ancient scourge of torture has been revived by those claiming to be democrats. In demolishing their facade, The Torture Memos, gives us vital insights into a beckoning danger in these extraordinary times.”  John Pilger, author, journalist & film-maker

David Cole is a professor of law at Georgetown University, legal affairs correspondent for The Nation, a frequent contributor to the New York Review of Books, and author of the award–winning Enemy Aliens.

Philippe Sands, QC, is a leading international lawyer and law professor at University College London, and the author of Torture Team.  He will be participating in launch events for this book, and will be available for interviews and to write op eds.