Experiments in Isolation

Intelligence agencies such as the CIA developed new and disturbing methods of interrogation based on the findings of researchers like the University of Manitoba's Dr. John Zubek.  

Created by Nelle Oosterom

 — Posted July 20, 2010
A volunteer undergoes an experiment in sensory isolation at a lab at the University of Manitoba, circa 1960s.
David Portigal and Co./Courtesy University of Manitoba Archives

When a professor at the University of Manitoba started doing experiments in sensory deprivation in the 1960s, few people thought anything of it.

No one then realized that intelligence agencies such as the CIA would use the findings of researchers like Dr. John Zubek to develop new and disturbing methods of interrogation.

Award-winning journalist Cecil Rosner has followed this story over the years.

Here is Cecil Rosner being interviewed by Canada’s History Associate Editor Nelle Oosterom (11 mins, 12 secs):

Cecil Rosner’s article, “Isolation,” appeared in the August-September 2010 issue of Canada’s History magazine.

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