Ten Alternative Responses to Terrorism

Deborah Gerner and Philip Schrodt
Baldwin, Kansas
contact: gerner@ku.edu, schrodt@ku.edu

Individuals who disagree with the approach of the United States government to the tragic events of September 11th are continually being asked "What's the alternative?" There are alternatives. We offer the following list of five thoughts and five actions.

Five Thoughts

• The events of 11 September were a massive crime against humanity. They were not an act of war against the United States.

• The acts of terror may have been intended to provoke a massive military response. The world already knows that the United States has overwhelming military capability and is willing to use it. The world needs to see that the United States can respond to this tragedy with justice, restraint, and humility.

• Our first priority must be to prevent additional terrorism against anyone. An attitude of vengeance will only alienate individuals who might assist us.

• Billions spent on food, roads, schools, and clinics in countries devastated by war and poverty will do more to prevent terrorism than billions spent on bombers and cruise missiles.

• One of the greatest sources of antagonism toward the United States is its tendency to ignore international law.

Five Actions

• This criminal act requires a multilateral police response, not a unilateral military response. A "war on terrorism" will be no more successful than the "war on drugs."

• To demonstrate a commitment to the rule of law, the United States and NATO should expedite the arrest of indicted war criminals in the former Yugoslavia and support the establishment of an International Criminal Court.

• The United States should reassess foreign policies that our allies view as counter-productive and biased against Muslims. For example, the U.S. should end economic sanctions affecting the people of Iraq and its opposition to an international observer force in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

• The United States should only undertake actions and associations that could be justified in a public forum. Word will get out anyway; if an action can't be defended, don't do it.

• We cannot eliminate terrorism alone. We should take seriously the advice and concerns of the international community.

In considering this list, remember...

• Dissent in a democracy is an expression of patriotism. Let your voice be heard.

Acknowledgement:
We have assembled this list from the thoughts expressed by friends and colleagues in Kansas, the rest of the United States, the Middle East, and around the world. Please feel free to share it.

Last update: 24 September 2001

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