December 03, 2009 07:37 PM UTC

War

•  
• by: Steve Harvey

(until Pols pries the gun out of my cold, dead hand, … – promoted by Barron X)

We should never, as a people, discuss the act of showering destruction on other human beings as a mere abstraction, nor engage in it lightly. It should always be cause for shame and despair when, using the best of our reason mobilized with only good will to humanity, we come to the conclusion that we can find no alternative to it.

But, clearly, there are times when there is no alternative to it. Pacifism by those of good will simply cedes the world to the most ruthless.

As with all policy decisions, what is most required is a good analysis.

And, many of you will be relieved to know, I don’t have one.

Regarding the question of whether to send more troops to Afghanastan, or withdraw, or something in between, what the discussion really requires now is a thorough analysis. I would be delighted if people would make cogent arguments, and post links to better and more expert arguments, regarding the systemic consequences of every possible decision. That’s the discussion that we, as the people ultimately responsible for the consequences and implications of such actions, should be having right now.