Most people's definition of obscenity includes the graphic depiction of violence against humans. These torture tapes definitely cross the line. Showing them cannot be defended as satisfying the public's "need to know."
I hope any broadcaster who shows the tapes gets his FCC license pulled, immediately.
that gives the media the sole "right" to decide what to show and what not to show, and what to use to shape public opinion. who the hell gave them that right?
I agree the tapes should not be shown. But the media could discuss the fact they have them and choose not to air them because of the content. As it is, they simply ignore their existence and make a conscious effort to refrain from broadcasting anything that might make viewers toughen their stand against terrorism.
As with the pictures of the prison stuff... there are ways you can "show it" without showing it.