Like in math: if A = B and B = C, then A must equal C.
To break this down even more, let's use Dershowitz's example: if (A) a terrorist were to implement the "Ticking Time Bomb" scenario, this automatically classifies them as what is defined in (B) "terrorism" (side note: terrorism is the use of violence and intimidation in a pursuit of political aims). If terrorism is displayed by violence and intimidation, and the term (C) torture is defined as inflicting pain (in violent acts, e.g.: beatings, branding, electric shocks, etc.), then what makes them different?
The outcome: A terrorist = terrorism, terrorism = torture, then wouldn't a terrorist = torture?
The people in these images seem to think so:
Another example that
makes this theory seem true, although fiction, in Batman: The Dark Night, it is
easy to see the Joker as a terrorist. He roams around Gotham city in an attempt
to cause chaos and terrorize a whole town. There is a scene in the movie where
Batman is in the interrogation room with the Joker and while they are speaking,
Batman uses his intimidating low, powerful voice to extract information from
the Joker.
In this scene the
Joker pushes one too many buttons with Batman and results in Batman using
force, brutally beating him up. He throws him against the wall, smashes him on
a table, and blocks the door when an officer chief tries to intervene on the
attack, others seeing the line Batman has crossed and even sensing small fear. We
see the Joker as the victim, almost, when he finally gives Batman the
information he needs after being broken down from harsh treatment.
From my standpoint, I
see Batman as the terrorist, using his power to prevent anyone from stopping
him from harassing the information from the Joker. The Joker is A, his acts on
the town is B, and Batman is C. Was Batman any more human or any less harmful
than the Joker?
Terrorism in any way
or circumstance should be seen as hypocritical and inhuman.
Source(s): Torture is Terrorism; Batman Interrogation Scene
I like the way this post reads as whole. Your analogy is very thought provoking. Definitely an interesting perspective. You raise an excellent point in stating how torture is both hypocritical and inhuman and were able to start and end with that position. I like how you compared a hero with a villain and then suggested the way Batman responded was just as barbaric as the Joker, the "terrorist" in this case. It really makes you think twice about fighting fire with fire.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading this as it really gave specific examples and information, instead of just stating your opinion. You backed up your opinion and ideas with examples and with evidence. The Joker was a very good example and made me look at that scene in a different way which I had not before. The only thing I would say about the blog is to make sure your font sizes are the same, I think the size jumps halfway through.
ReplyDelete