The problem

[Don Laird]

I believe there is a solution to our problem.  First, it is important to
identify and define the problem.  I define the problem as increasing risk of
domestic terrorism.  That is, the problem is not revenge.

Our federal government has adopted a warlike approach.  I believe my
dictionary definition of "war" does not fit the current conditions.  The
warlike approach has been explained as an approach that almost certainly
will lead to increasing domestic terrorism.

But that's the problem.  We are worsening our risk with a warlike approach.
How can we reduce the risk?

One approach in my view is to adopt a legal approach instead of a warlike
approach.  Establish an international evidentiary court to determine if
evidence exists to arrest bin Laden et al and try them in an international
court.

If this is indeed a solution to our problem, then where is the grass-roots
movement to demand it?  What I see instead is an emotional American public
out for vengeance.   Or imagining they can control terrorism through
non-legal methods.  Already thousands of homeless Afghans are dying as they
flee the feared bombings.  Their fellow Moslems are well aware of that!

War is an emotional response, or a propagandistic response, or a secret
agenda response.  As most wars have been, it is impractical.  A legal
approach, that is, an approach that attempts to achieve justice in a
rational manner, seems to be a practical approach.  It could reduce our risk
of increasing domestic terrorism.

Personally, I vigorously disapprove of the path my government has adopted, a
path that is claimed to increase the risk of all Americans!

d