Assignment 9- Ian Schaeffer

I believe there is a time for war, but it is not something that should be declared on a whim or at the drop of a hat; a declaration of war requires lengthy deliberation. Even still, war is never morally right. The only thing that justifies killing at such a high level is the "lesser of two evils" ideal. If war is used to protect or save the lives of people from a threat that continues to wreak havoc on a population or people, then it is excusable. For example, following the 9/11 attacks in New York City by the terrorist group Al-Qaeda, the cruelty of the attacks, the number of dead, and the graphic footage of the survivors and the dead sent shock waves across the country, and all of this inclined Congress to declare war. I consider this situation as justifying war, as our nation felt vulnerable and frankly scared, and we needed to ensure the safety of our country and citizens. However, at a certain point, war stops proving things and becomes senseless violence, so it is important we determine this line before going into a conflict. As for alternatives, nothing is clear cut. It might be possible to negotiate with some people, but is it possible to reason with radical terrorists? Still, any alternative to violence is ideal, especially if it accomplishes the same goal.