Torture, including practices like waterboarding, violates the legal and moral standards of all civilized nations.

Jerrold Nadler’s quote strongly condemns the use of torture, specifically calling out practices like waterboarding, as a violation of both legal and moral standards. He argues that such methods, regardless of the context or justification, go against the values upheld by civilized nations. By highlighting the legal and moral dimensions, Nadler is emphasizing that torture is unacceptable not only from a human rights perspective but also because it breaches internationally recognized laws, such as those outlined in the Geneva Conventions and other human rights frameworks.

Nadler’s statement reflects his commitment to upholding human dignity and international law, especially in the context of the war on terror and controversial tactics used by some governments, including the United States, in the aftermath of 9/11. His opposition to waterboarding and similar tactics aligns with the broader criticism of enhanced interrogation techniques that were authorized by certain administrations, and his call is a reminder that actions which degrade human beings cannot be justified by security concerns alone.

The quote also highlights the ethical debate around the use of torture in national security efforts. Nadler argues that even in situations where security is at stake, the use of torture undermines the principles of justice and humanity that democratic societies are built upon. He insists that moral integrity should not be sacrificed for perceived security benefits, as such actions have lasting consequences on the reputation and credibility of a nation.

The origin of this quote lies in Nadler’s work as a U.S. Congressman and his advocacy for human rights. Nadler has been a consistent critic of policies that, in his view, violate basic human freedoms and rights, particularly in the context of the war on terror. His statement reflects his ongoing efforts to challenge practices he believes contradict both American values and the international legal framework for protecting human rights.