I think Obama's agenda should be focused on the future of American policy, not sweeping up its past. Seeking accountability for the recent American use of torture will only alleviate the short term blemish on America's reputation. Shaping future policy, closing Guantanamo and other secret prisons, and ensuring that it does not happen again is more important than any symbolic court room show.

Has America resorted to torture in the name of the "War on Terror"? Scenes from Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo made many question whether we have damaged our democratic values and humanitarian ideals. Now, with President Barack Obama sworn into office, there is a strong current of change in the air. Will the new administration hold the perpetrators of torture - including those at the top who authorized water-boarding and other interrogation techniques - accountable for their actions?