Torture, Rights, and Values: Why the Prohibition of Torture is Absolute
David Rodin, David Luban

Description:
In international law the prohibition of torture is absolute—it allows of no justifying exceptions. But how can we make sense of this idea in a post 9-11 world, when some suggest that a terrorist who has planted a 'ticking bomb' may not have a right against torture?

The answer has to do with the distinctive role played by communal values. The rejection of torture is intimately connected to the values of liberty, autonomy, and human dignity. These values constrain the authority of officials and politicians and crucially set limits on the obligations they owe to us. Understanding the relationship between values and authority helps us to understand the prohibition of torture and why it can and should be upheld as absolute.

This lecture will inaugurate the Carnegie-Uehiro fellowship program.

Speakers: David Rodin, David Luban

Location:
Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs
Merrill House
170 East 64th Street
New York, NY 10065-7478

(212) 838-4120
(212) 752-2432 - Fax

Map: Click Here (opens a new window)

Fees for all Public Affairs Programs:

Non-members: $25 per event
Free admission for subscribers. Seating is limited and advance reservations are required. To purchase a subscription, go to Membership.

Morning Public Affairs Programs
Continental breakfast served at 8:00 AM. Presentations begin at 8:15 AM, followed by a question-and-answer session from 8:45 to 9:15 AM.

Evening Public Affairs Programs
Presentations begin at 5:30 PM, followed by a question-and-answer session at 6:00 PM and a reception from 6:30 to 7:00 PM.

Contact
Joanne Myers

publicaffairs@cceia.org