DON'T DUPLICATE BEHAVIOR WE ABHOR

As I listened to the saber rattling on television, this thought occurred to
me. Terrorism is the product of an ideology as much as the behavior of
individuals, or a state. We may relentlessly pursue both while a new
generation is being born to step into their shoes.

It reminds me of the so-called war on drugs. We could eliminate every drug
user, dealer, and cartel today and find willing replacements tomorrow if
the conditions that motivate people to use are not eliminated.

Does this mean we do nothing to the perpetrators? Of course not. They must
be brought to justice. That justice must be a measured response and not
duplicate the behavior we abhor. Otherwise, we risk the real possibility of
confirming and strengthening the ideology.

In the meantime let's not kid ourselves into thinking we have solved the
problem. The real question is, do we want short-term palliatives or a
lasting peace? The latter involves a commitment to eradicate the conditions
that breed mistrust, anger, and fanaticism.

JOE MORAN
Woodbriar Drive