Abu Ghraib

The scandal of Abu Ghraib will forever be an example of America taking matters way too far. Through "harsh interrogation techniques" (torture) American officials attempted to receive important information from Iraqis. However, after physical AND psychological torture, these officials only received information from an estimated 20 to 25% of detainees. The theme of nature vs. nurture is a prolific idea which will endlessly torture man and cause him to do things he wouldn't normally do. In Lord of the Flies by William Golding, power was almost more important than the idea of being rescued. Ralph and Jack were in a constant power struggle, and when power was gained, the thirst became an insatiable quest for more. Those two characters can be compared to Charles Garner. He had power over prisoners, and he used that power. Unfortunately, Garner wasn't able to control himself with this power and exercised control over living beings (like the little boy in the pond with the stick in Lord of the Flies). On the other side of the idea of nature vs nurture, there is the belief that society effects man. Like the novel White Fang by Jack London, society (higher ranking officials) effected the actions of soldiers working the prison. Some questioned the "techniques," but ultimately didn't ask questions. This proves that man will be effected by outside forces. It is hard to believe anyone would treat another human being so poorly, even if told to do so, but this shows society effects man's actions drastically.
The "disciplinary" actions taken against the people involved are absolutely horrible. I believe these people should be punished with more than a couple of years in prison. Under no circumstance is it OK to treat people like those soldiers treated those prisoners. The opposition may say they were just doing as orders told, but the soldiers should have known better. How they acted was/still is an embarrassment to our country and what we are supposed to represent. Also, the fact that there are pictures disgusts me. These solders took pictures with the detainees while they were nude, in "stress positions," and on the floor. I can't believe in these pictures the soldiers are smiling, thumbs-up and proud. The most disturbing picture to me was the one with a woman soldier, by the body of the only reported homicide of Al-Jamadi. The soldier was sitting by it with a smile on her face. She said "it was supposed to be just a dead guy." Maybe she didn't know he was murdered, but why would anyone take a picture with a dead body?
I understand the times and conditions were rough, but in no instance is it OK to treat humans like the Iraqis were treated at Abu Ghraib prison. This is yet another example of man at his worst, and how he attempts to rationalize it.