Vision of Hope Blog tagged 'terrorism'

What Does Mumbai Mean?

Nissim Dahan

I don't claim any particular expertise in Indian/Pakistani relations. However, given the horrific events of recent days, I think that certain conclusions can be drawn.

1. Terrorism will not go away any time soon: Given the strong probability that there will always be various groups around the world whose members perceive themselves to be the victims of injustice, and given that as few as 10 men, acting in tandem, and with scant resources, could wreak such havoc in a hu [...]

Where does Self-Defense End, and Terrorism Begin?

Nissim Dahan

Almost every legal system recognizes self-defense as a legitimate legal defense. If somebody is coming at you with an ax, and you have a reasonable concern for your life, and you have no means of escape, then you have the right to protect yourself, even if it means shooting the guy in the head. In short, the right to defend oneself is the right to take the life of another.

But is it possible that the right to defend oneself is being stretched so thin, that it crosses over into th [...]

Islam: A Religion of Peace?

Nissim Dahan

I attended a debate recently. The issue: Is Islam a Religion of Peace, and is Shariah, or Islamic law, consistent with the U.S. Constitution? Arguing in the affirmative was Suhail, whom I would consider a moderate Muslim. Arguing in the negative was Frank, an American who considers Islam to be a threat to Western civilization. The following is an abridged version of the actual debate. See what you think.

Suhail: The U.S. Constitution protects us all from discrimination on [...]

The Soldier and The Terrorist: A Conversation

Nissim Dahan

Most of us know, deep in our gut, that terrorism-the use of force against innocent civilians for the sake of political advantage-is wrong. But proving that is often more difficult than it first seems. The following hypothetical conversation is a case in point.

Soldier: I can't believe you guys; strapping on suicide bombs and blowing up innocent civilians. Have you no shame, no sense of decency?

Terrorist: I can't believe you guys; st [...]