“Bob Brecher has accepted the challenge of the defenders of torture in this excellent book.” (Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews, February 2009) "(Dershowitz's) premise is subjected to a withering scrutiny in this brilliant deconstruction by the moral philosopher Bob Brecher. In a comprehensive critique of the 'ticking bomb' hypothesis, Brecher exposes the moral and intellectual flaws in Dershowitz's arguments and shows how easily such pragmatic rationalisations can open the door to the creation of a 'tortuous society'. It's a task that Brecher accomplishes with grace, moral passion and unswerving logic." (Red Pepper, March 2008) "A splendid attack on the appalling idea of legalising torture." (Will Podmore) “A salutary antidote to those who would waver on the issue [of torture]…Brecher opens up the wider utilitarian implications that arise.” (Planet Magazine) “Brecher … does not reflexively dismiss the advocates of torture … .He carefully cites the errors of their arguments, using logic, expert opinion, and moral reasoning.” (PsycCritiques)