Here's the breakdown:
* No real "degrees": The term likely emerged in the early 20th century, possibly from the Masonic system, where there are "three degrees" of membership.
* Association with brutality: The term "third degree" became associated with intense questioning techniques that could include physical abuse, threats, and psychological manipulation, often employed by law enforcement or military interrogators.
* No official usage: The phrase "third degree interrogation" is not formally defined or recognized by any official law enforcement or legal system.
Other terms that might be used to describe different levels of questioning:
* Preliminary interview: A less formal, introductory conversation.
* Interrogation: A more formal and structured questioning process, typically conducted in a controlled environment.
* Enhanced interrogation: A controversial term used to describe methods that go beyond standard questioning techniques and may involve coercion, deception, or psychological manipulation.
It's important to note: While the term "third degree" is often used to describe brutal interrogations, it's crucial to understand that such practices are illegal and unethical.
In conclusion: The phrase "third degree" is a slang term with no official meaning, but it has become synonymous with brutal and coercive interrogation methods.