Solitary Confinement for Life?

Some of our sisters and brothers (more often, the latter) commit horrible crimes.  Yet, we believe that even they have inherent dignity and are inviolable.

Can it possibly be that a punishment of solitary confinement for life is consistent with the dignity/inviolability of any human being?   Or is it, instead, a form of torture?

If this question interests you, you may want to read this report, in today's New York Times.
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