From an Orthodox perspective (my background) it is wrong to inflict suffering (AKA torturing consciousness) for the sake of inflicting suffering because to do s

From an Orthodox perspective (my background) it is wrong to inflict suffering (AKA torturing consciousness) for the sake of inflicting suffering because to do so is to assault an icon of God (humans created in His image). This is the reason that vengeance is prohibited. The only justifiable use of force in this context is deterrence / prevention of harm inflicted on innocents. I have a hard time seeing any other use of force as sane or justifiable.