Free Republic

Many debates over politics and policy begin with a battle over language. Before all sides can hash out their differences, there must be an understanding of what their words mean. From the months following 9/11 right up to the current CIA confirmation hearings for Gina Haspel, the misuse of a vital term has hindered clarity and progress on a key issue. On the first day of her answers before the Senate Intelligence Committee, the word even impeded what should be a clear path to the title she seeks. The word, of course, is “torture.” Since our nation began undertaking special...