Intense Interrogations -vs- Brain Damage

An article in the Charlotte Observer on Tuesday 22Sept09 "Report: CIA methods meant interrogations often useless". Details how intense interrogation methods might have been more harmful than useful in gaining valued information. "The CIA's harsh interrogations are likely to have damaged the brains of terror suspects diminishing their ability to recall and provide detailed information the agency sought". The article describes how chronic stress and trauma could have damaged the suspects hippocampus. Techniques used included prolonged sleep deprivation-up to six days in one instance, being chained in painful positions, exploration of prisoners phobias, and the highly publicised waterboarding-a form of simulated drowning. While interrogation is a necessity in gaining valued information is it really necessary to torture someone to get it. This post ties into our study on the physical aspects of the brain. It also relates on how sugestions during intense physical stress can alter memories.