Whither the war on terror?

Whither the war on terror?
- June 24, 2013
- Daniel Brunstetter, political science assistant professor, is featured in the Orange County Register June 24, 2013
From the OC Register:
In a recent speech at the National Defense University, President Barack Obama claimed
the war on terrorism is at a crossroads. It could take the path of a perpetual war,
with drones striking suspected terrorists across the globe, or the United States could
take concrete steps to bring it to a close. For Obama, the choice is clear: “We must
define the nature and scope of this conflict, or else it will define us.” From the
detention of terrorist suspects at Guantánamo to the controversy of drones, Obama
expressed concern that this struggle, however necessary, has begun to define us in
ways that undermine our values. In the speech, he promised to reverse the process,
pledging to “dismantle the networks that pose a direct danger … all while maintaining
the freedoms and ideals we defend.” As for drones, they will play a necessary role
— less tragic than other, more invasive uses of force, but still tragic for some.
However, their use must be subject to “increased oversight” and seen as part of a
comprehensive strategy that addresses “the underlying grievances and conflicts that
feed extremism.” Daniel Brunstetter is an associate professor of political science
and a leader on the topic of ethics and war.
Subscription required for viewing full story.
Share on:
Related News Items
- Rethinking incarceration and reentry: A Q&A with Emily Owens
- Why women earn less: The link between misogyny and the gender wage gap
- Guillen awarded Moore Scholarship for Community and Social Change
- New Democrats in OC's swing districts break from party majority on immigration bills
- Thinking about neuroscience: Essays from the field
connect with us: