Exposing Torture

Centuries of Cruelty

  • Interest Level: Grade 8 - Grade 12
  • Reading Level: Grade 8

Torture. According to Henry Shue, professor of politics and international relations at the University of Oxford in England, “No other practice except slavery is so universally condemned in law and human convention. Yet, unlike slavery…torture is widespread and growing.” Why is torture so common? Is it an unavoidable component of human psychology?

Exposing Torture tackles these complex questions, delving into the history of torture around the world, from the flayings, burnings, and other methods of torture in ancient societies to the humiliating forms of psychological and sexual torture of the twenty-first century. But is torture an effective means of controlling human behavior? Can it help root out information about terrorism and prevent loss of human life?

Over the centuries, many people have supported the point of view that it can, while others vehemently disagree. In this book, readers will examine the ethical and moral dilemmas of torture, while learning more about the international efforts to ensure the humanitarian treatment of individuals in a variety of circumstances. Exposing Torture also delves into the system of international courts and tribunals that work to bring known torturers to trial. Readers will hear from victims of torture who not only survived but sought justice and founded organizations to help other victims. After reading this in-depth examination, readers will be able to make a persuasive argument to answer the question: Is torture ever acceptable?

Format Your Price Add
978-1-4677-5049-3
$25.99
978-1-4677-6306-6
$38.99
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Interest Level Grade 8 - Grade 12
Reading Level Grade 8
Genre Social Studies, Young Adult
Copyright 2015
Publisher Lerner Publishing Group
Imprint Twenty-First Century Books ™
Language English
Number of Pages 112
Publication Date 2015-01-01
Text Type Argument
BISACS YAN031000, YAN051260, YAN051160
Dewey 364.6'7
Dimensions 6 x 8.1875
Lexile 1230
Features Bibliography/further reading, Glossary, Index, Primary source quotations/images, Reviewed, Source notes, Table of contents, Teaching Guides, and eSource

Author: Hal Marcovitz

Lerner eSource™ offers free digital teaching and learning resources, including Common Core State Standards (CCSS) teaching guides. These guides, created by classroom teachers, offer short lessons and writing exercises that give students specific instruction and practice using Common Core skills and strategies. Lerner eSource also provides additional resources including online activities, downloadable/printable graphic organizers, and additional educational materials that would also support Common Core instruction. Download, share, pin, print, and save as many of these free resources as you like!

Exposing Torture

Torture. According to Henry Shue, professor of politics and international relations at the University of Oxford in England, “No other practice except slavery is so universally condemned in law and human convention. Yet, unlike slavery…torture is widespread and growing.” Why… View available downloads →

Reviews

Booklist

“Marcovitz avoids sensationalizing the topic, treating both it and his readers seriously….This is a good pick for schools or those interested in current events.”―Booklist

School Library Journal

“Marcovitz succeeds in bringing focus to the larger issue of torture and the plight of individual victims around the world. Students doing research will find depth in this book and its extensive back matter.”―School Library Journal

Kirkus Reviews

“[T]his overview provides readers with a useful starting place for further exploration.” —Kirkus Reviews