Up to now I've been able to come up with solid reasons for why the Others would have done what they did so far. However, after this episode I'm having a much harder time believing that they are the "Good" people they keep saying they are. I mean, performing a human sacrifice ritual in front of children - what's up with that? Or is there a good valid justifiable reason for that, too? If so, I'm not seeing it...

Well like Richard said, Ben knew Locke wouldn't actually do it. I don't think they ever intended for there to be a live sacrifice.

That struck me as bizaare and cruel, Saukkomies.. I couldn't believe the children - the same children that they're trying to keep safe - were witnessing a possible execution. Whether or not it was carried out is a moot point. That's about as damaging as it comes.

Well, if you look at the scope of human history, it's not that unusual, and having Cooper tied up to a big pillar by a few ropes is a lot less graphic than other public executions that have been perpetrated throughout time.