Michael Skerker is assistant professor in the Department of Leadership, Ethics, and Law at the US Naval Academy.

“This book offers an interdisciplinary study of the role of interrogation and its use by the state. Michael Skerker’s approach allows the reader to view the conduct of domestic and foreign affairs through the prism of moral and political philosophy, jurisprudence, and just war theory. The result is an excellent approach to this multifaceted issue that provides insight without polemic.”

“In this study of the moral issues surrounding interrogation practices, Skerker debates under what circumstances the state is entitled to know a person’s thoughts and how information can be obtained in a morally correct manner.”

“This book explores ideas of autonomy, rights (e.g., to privacy), coercion, the liberal state, and police powers. Of special interest is Skerker's discussion of both "just-war" theory and the requirements of constitutional/international legal rights concerning prisoners of war and other martial detainees, such as "unlawful combatants," i.e., terrorists or non-state actors or guerillas and insurgents. Additionally, Skerker makes certain policy recommendations useful for interrogators. His target audiences are law enforcement professionals, the military, and intelligence agencies; however, other intelligent readers would benefit greatly.”