Essays on the Issues

Now IS the Time to Speak Out about Peace by Robert Jensen and Rahul Mahajan

The authors remind us that now is NOT the time to smother our desire for peace. Some would have it that speaking out about peaceful solutions is inappropriate in the wake of Tuesday's attacks. But if we are not quick in making our wishes clear, our political representatives will most likely lead us further down the path of violence.

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U.S. just as guilty of committing own violent acts by Robert Jensen

Another poignant piece by Professor Jensen, of the School of Journalism at the University of Texas at Austin. Find here a brief history of US aggression toward other peoples of the world. When we ask "Why?", herein we find part of the answer.

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Professor Robert Jensen (as well as his Dean) have received threats in response to his speaking out. You can help by letting him know that he is not alone, and that you appreciate his taking risks to speak out on your behalf.

Professor Robert Jensen: rjensen@uts.cc.utexas.edu

Dean Ellen Wartella: wartella@mail.utexas.edu

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A World out of Touch with Itself: Where the Violence Comes From
by Rabbi Michael Lerner

Wise words. Rabbi Lerner states his case very clearly: such violent attitudes and actions are only possible when we ignore the sanctity of life that each human being holds. He calls on Americans to rethink their lifestyle, which is so often uncaring and downright harmful to other human beings.

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The Belly to Do What Needs to be Done
by Tamim Ansary

Tamim Ansary is an Afghani national who has long lived in the U.S. Although he is no friend of the Taliban, he shows us very clearly why bombing Afghanistan would make no sense at all. He offers some historical and present perspective on life in Afghanistan and the involvement of Osama bin Laden as well.