The Dark Side: The Inside Story of How the War on Terror Turned Into a War on American Ideals

by Jane Mayer
The Dark Side: The Inside Story of How the War on Terror Turned Into a War on American Ideals cover
Good Books rating 4.08
Politics and Current Affairs
Technical
  • ID: 4416
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780307456298
  • Publisher: Anchor Canada
  • Published: 2009-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

The Dark Side delves into the controversial decisions made by the U.S. government in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, exploring how these actions not only violated constitutional principles but also hindered efforts to dismantle Al Qaeda. The book provides a critical examination of the moral and political consequences of these policies, highlighting their long-term impact on the nation's standing in the world. Through meticulous research and analysis, the author uncovers the self-destructive nature of these decisions, offering a sobering perspective on the balance between security and civil liberties. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the War on Terror and its far-reaching implications.

Reviews
The Week · 2025-10-21
powerful 4.50

The book provides a detailed account of the Bush Administration's mistreatment of detainees. It is a powerful critique of the policies that led to the abuse of power.

Jane Mayer's 'The Dark Side' is a powerful and detailed account of the Bush Administration's policies regarding the treatment of detainees. The book is a scathing critique of the administration's actions and the individuals responsible for them. Mayer's research is thorough, and her writing is engaging, making the book a compelling read. The book is a reminder of the importance of accountability and the dangers of unchecked power. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the impact of the war on terror on American values.

Quick quotes

    Jane Mayer has synthesized the scattered stories about the Bush Administration's mistreatment and abuse of terrorist detainees at offshore U.S. camps and 'black sites'.

    The book is a powerful critique of the policies that led to the abuse of power.

    Mayer's research is thorough, and her writing is engaging, making the book a compelling read.

The New York Times · Jane Mayer · 2008-07-24
compelling 4.00

The book is a gripping account of the war on terror, highlighting the dual nature of the conflict. It sheds light on the internal struggles and decisions that shaped the war's trajectory.

Jane Mayer's 'The Dark Side' is a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of the war on terror. The book is not just about the external battles but also about the internal conflicts and the decisions made behind closed doors. Mayer's account is thorough and insightful, providing a comprehensive view of how the war evolved into a war on American ideals. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of the war on terror and its impact on American values.

Quick quotes

    The Dark Side is a gripping new account of the war on terror, is really the story of two wars: the far-flung battle against Islamic extremism and the battle within the Bush administration between those who wanted to fight a honorable war and those who wanted to fight a vicious one.

    Mayer's account is a damning indictment of the Bush administration's policies and the individuals who implemented them.

    The book is a reminder of the importance of accountability and the dangers of unchecked power.

Butler University · W Watts · 2008-01-01
hopeful 3.75

The book highlights the efforts of patriotic Americans to prevent the U.S. from becoming a nation that tortures. It is a hopeful account amidst the grim details of the war on terror.

W Watts' review of 'The Dark Side' by Jane Mayer emphasizes the positive aspects of the book, particularly the efforts of patriotic Americans to prevent the U.S. from becoming a nation that tortures. The book is a hopeful account amidst the grim details of the war on terror. Watts praises Mayer's thorough research and engaging writing style, making the book a compelling read. The book is a reminder of the importance of accountability and the dangers of unchecked power. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the impact of the war on terror on American values.

Quick quotes

    The good news in Mayer's account is that many patriotic Americans tried along the way to stop our descent into becoming a nation that tortures.

    The book is a hopeful account amidst the grim details of the war on terror.

    Watts praises Mayer's thorough research and engaging writing style, making the book a compelling read.

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