Torturers Wanted

by Sally D. Stabb, Ph.D.on Alias

NOW HIRING: Communications Specialists. Great employment opportunities with an organization that fits your values. You’ll help in the national security effort, learn marketable skills and work on a great team with strong leadership. On-the-job training provided; no previous experience or education necessary.

Of course, you would never answer an ad that said “Torturers Wanted.” At least I hope not. But you just might answer the ad for the “Communications Specialist” and down the road find yourself threatening someone’s friends and family if he or she doesn’t tell you what you want to know, or even beating the crap out of that person if the information is not forthcoming. You’d never do something that evil? You’re too moral and too free-thinking? Only crazy sadists do this sort of thing? Don’t bet on it.

Think. In Alias, it’s not just Dr. Zhang Lee in the opening episode of the show, threatening Sydney … read more»

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