Can we fight Terrorism with Force?

1. Can we fight Terrorism with Force? Braunwarth

2. Terrorist Motivations • Terrorists are religious extremists who are opposed to any secular forces in the region • Saudi Arabia and the U.S. presence there • Iraq under Hussein and under the U.S. • Israel with support from the U.S. • Terrorists try to trigger massive over-reaction by the target (U.S.) • This over-reaction mobilizes the population of the Arab world and others against us

3. September 11, 2001 • The attacks of September 11, 2001 shattered the widespread belief of U.S. invulnerability and isolation from the problems plaguing much of the world • In response to the attacks, President Bush promised a new war on terrorism • How will September 11 affect our traditions of freedom, tolerance, and open debate? • How will it affect our sense of community and commitment to our political system?

4. Wars and Democracy • Americans typically “rally around the flag” whenever troops are committed overseas • September 11 reinvigorated our sense of community and recognition of the importance of the federal government • However, solidarity during war can also resulted in the targeting of minorities and the squelching of dissent under the pretext of national unity

5. Public Opinion and the Media • Wars have traditionally had a contradictory effect on the traditions of freedom, tolerance, and open debate • Solidarity and patriotism can threaten essential freedoms in the name of order • Much depends on the mass media • The media can become more of a lapdog than a watchdog out of a sense of patriotism and allow political elites to distort or even fabricate information

6. The War in Iraq and Terrorism • Has the war in Iraq been a productive part of our war in terror? • It allowed us to vent our frustrations on someone when Bin Laden was unavailable • But, have created many enemies (individuals and countries) • For every civilian killed, we create a blood debt that someone will want paid (blowback) • Excellent recruiting tool for Bin Laden • Poor recruiting tool for Uncle Sam

7. War on Terrorism • Terrorists dislike our democracy and liberties • If we give them up, they will have won a huge victory

8. Alternatives to Military Force? • Need to eliminate passive support for the terrorists • Not respond with overwhelming force • Need to respect rule of law – not because the terrorists do but because we need to set an example for those who might support them • Use the world court • Our strengths are our respect for civil liberties and human rights – we should promote abroad • Support economic development, health, etc.