On the ethics of torture /

Moral questions concerning torture have risen to prominence in both philosophical and lay discussions in the wake of revelations concerning its apparent use by the US in the War on Terror. Steinhoff's book is a welcome respite from the often strident tone of this discussion. Drawing on the claim that persons have a right to self-defense, and on the view that there is a liberty to produce an evil in order to prevent a larger evil from happening (provided that this could not be averted by any other reasonable means), Steinhoff (Univ. of Hong Kong, China) defends the legitimacy of the use of torture in certain circumstances. In drawing on both the right of self-defense and the utilitarian aim of the greater good, Steinhoff avoids the charge that his arguments will be of interest only to persons who adopt a particular moral theory. Replete with well-crafted thought experiments designed to make his points, and taking his opponents' arguments seriously in addressing their objections to his view, Steinhoff's On the Ethics of Torture is a study in how applied ethics should be done. This is highly recommended for all who are interested in questions surrounding the morality of torture. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readership levels. J. S. Taylor The College of New Jersey