Ubiquity of Brutality

Brutality and torture were common in many societies throughout history, not unique to any single culture. Comparing torturous acts in China to those in medieval Europe or during the reign of Ivan the Terrible, highlights the widespread nature of such practices. William Dalrymple suggests such practices are not unique to China, and Anita Anand implies that no one wins a 'top trumps' competition of brutality, because "we're all the same".

• Torture methods included flaying, burying people in ants, covering them in honey, water torture, and hanging upside down.
• Ivan the Terrible engaged in practices like hanging people by their ribs.
• William Dalrymple states this kind of brutality demonstrates the uncivilized behavior that has occurred throughout human history.
• These historical examples serve as a reminder that we are a very brutal species, despite our civilised aspirations.