Weasel Words

Consider some recent statements from Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice.

New report:

Rice said the United States does not permit or tolerate torture under any circumstances.

Translation for those who need it:

According to Attorney General Gonsalves pulling out fingernails is not torture. Electric shocks are not torture. The breaking a suspects bones is not torture. Any method that does not cause pain consistent with organ failure or death is not torture

Quote from Condoleeza Rice, Secretary of State:

Information gathered by U.S. intelligence agencies from a "very small number of extremely dangerous detainees," the secretary said, and has helped prevent terrorist attacks and saved lives "in Europe as well as in the United States and other countries."

Translation for those who need it:

Forget the fact that the United States has thousands of detainees in Guantanamo and Afganistan. Also forget the bombings in Madrid, London, Bali, etc., etc., etc.

Quote from Condoleeza Rice, Secretary of State:

"We cannot discuss information that would compromise the success of intelligence, law enforcement, and military operations.

Translation for those who need it:

The United States has secret prisons in foreign countries.

Quote from Condoleeza Rice, Secretary of State:

The United States does not and has not transported anyone from country to country for the purpose of interrogation by torture.

Translation for those who need it:

The United States does not and has not transported anyone from country to country for the purpose of interrogation by humiliating and degrading treatment.

Quote from Condoleeza Rice, Secretary of State:

"The United States has fully respected the sovereignty of other countries that have cooperated in these matters,"

Translation for those who need it:

"The United States does not respect the sovereignty of countries that have criticized us.

Question: What makes us different from our enemies?