Recently, the Senate passed a ban on the torture of any suspected terrorist in U.S. custody.This ban has come following allegations that cruel and unusual methods of retrieving information were being used in Iraq by U.S. personnel.

The move to prevent this type of action against captives is a good move.

It is the responsibility of the United States as a world superpower to act in such a way as to be a role model for other nations.

Aside from liberating Iraq from the oppressive reign of Saddam Hussein, one of the latter goals of the occupation is to institute democracy.

If the United States desires to keep a clean image, it must continue to monitor its practices.

By allowing the torture of it’s captives, the United States is putting itself on the same level of the regime they just helped to end.

While there is a good possibility that questionable practices have provided vital information in the past, times have changed.

In an article in Monday’s USA Today, CIA Director Porter Goss described the methods used in interrogations as “unique.” Goss also discussed the Bush Administration’s support for the current policies.

Violation of the Geneva Conventions warrants proper punishment.

When one human tortures another human being, actions should be taken.

The repercussions for the use of torture should be so severe that it would prevent anyone from using torture unless it is absolutely necessary. In other words, someone must be willing to accept the stated punishment before they decide to go through with the torture.

The United States should outlaw torture, or at least put strong restrictions on its use. By doing so, we will continue to be a role model for other nations instead of taking on a hypocritical attitude.

News Editor Michael Bishop for the Editorial Board