Meaning: The quote you have provided is a reference to a specific case discussed by journalist Jane Mayer regarding the treatment of a detainee in a dark environment. To provide further context and understanding, it's important to delve into the details of the case and explore the broader implications of such treatment.

The quote suggests that The New York Times reported on a case where a detainee who had a fear of the dark was intentionally subjected to prolonged periods of darkness. This treatment appears to be a deliberate and cruel form of psychological torture, exploiting the individual's fear for the purpose of inflicting distress and suffering. The idea that a person's vulnerabilities and fears are used against them in such a manner is deeply troubling and raises serious ethical and human rights concerns.

Jane Mayer, the journalist who is referenced in the quote, is known for her investigative reporting and in-depth analysis of political and social issues. She has covered a wide range of topics, including national security, the war on terror, and the treatment of detainees. Mayer's work often sheds light on controversial and often hidden aspects of government policies and actions, providing a critical perspective on the impact of these policies on individuals and society as a whole.

The specific case mentioned in the quote underscores the ethical and moral dilemmas surrounding the treatment of detainees, particularly in the context of national security and counterterrorism efforts. It highlights the potential for abuse and mistreatment of individuals who are held in detention, as well as the psychological tactics used to exert control and instill fear.

The deliberate use of a detainee's fear of the dark as a means of psychological manipulation raises questions about the boundaries of acceptable treatment of individuals in custody. It also raises broader questions about the tactics and methods employed in the interrogation and detention of individuals suspected of involvement in criminal or terrorist activities.

The case described in the quote underscores the need for careful scrutiny and oversight of the treatment of detainees, as well as the importance of upholding basic human rights principles, even in the context of national security concerns. It also serves as a reminder of the potential for abuse and mistreatment when individuals are held in conditions of confinement and subjected to various forms of psychological pressure.

The application of psychological tactics to induce fear and distress in detainees is a contentious issue that has been the subject of debate and scrutiny in legal, ethical, and human rights circles. The use of such tactics raises fundamental questions about the moral and legal standards that should govern the treatment of individuals in custody, as well as the responsibility of governments and authorities to ensure the humane treatment of detainees.

In conclusion, the quote from Jane Mayer highlights a disturbing case of deliberate psychological manipulation and mistreatment of a detainee based on their fear of the dark. This case serves as a powerful example of the ethical and human rights challenges associated with the treatment of individuals in custody, as well as the need for careful scrutiny and oversight of detention practices. It also underscores the importance of upholding fundamental principles of human rights and dignity, even in the context of national security concerns.