Strike Terror No More:

An Analysis of Theo-Politics

      In explaining the key religious concepts in the selected essays from Strike Terror No More, it is significant that Psalm 10 is examined, for it tells of a world where no one will strike terror ever again.  As they reflected upon the meaning of this psalm, the essayists  pondered ways in which to attain such a just world and examined the ethical implications of waging a war against terrorism.  In the process, these theologians presented their theological positions concerning the origins, prospects, and ethics of America’s newest war.

     In his eloquent essay in Strike Terror No More, theologian Fumitaka Matsuoka urged his readers not to confuse isolated radicals driven by hatred with innocent and decent people who just happen to share the same religion.  Just as importantly, he cautioned against resorting to violence in order to confront the criminal acts of violence inflicted upon America, for vengeance can never achieve justice, it only creates more violence and injustice.  (Matsuoka)

     He acknowledged the tremendous outpouring of generosity, comfort, and support that surged throughout the United States and the world as strangers reached out to the victims of September 11^th and their loved ones.  He also acknowledged that healthy anger existed towards the perpetrators of the criminal acts against human decency and dignity and decency, and praised both American and foreign leaders for working together to contain the evil acts of terrorists. (Matsuoka)

     In writing his essay, Fumitaka Matsuoka was drawing upon the key religious concepts of love, compassion, generosity, and community in order to elucidate what he considered appropriate measures in response to global terrorism.  His observation that peace is more than the absence of warfare but the will of God reflects biblical teachings, as does his call for unity as a positive force in society and his appeal to eliminate the underlying causes of war through justice and reconciliation. 

     Theologian Max Stackhouse also examined terrorism and suitable responses to it

in his essay, in which he examined the consequences of conflict between America and Islam.  He acknowledged that Western reactions to the 9/11 attacks might be viewed in the Islamic world as imperialism, and suggested that the outcome will depend upon whether America can use its power to win a just peace featuring shared opportunities for participation and well-being among the nations of the world.  (Stackhouse)

     According to Stackhouse, one of the great flaws of contemporary thinking is that philosophical and political analyses seem to be more universal and secular rather than religious and theological.  He observed that some religions and most theologies are more universalistic, and suggested that without religious theology, neither liberals nor conservatives have been able to develop a worldview that can define the principles of just and unjust war in regard to the global issues of our time. (Stackhouse) 

     In evaluating this essay, it is evident that Stackhouse was drawing upon biblical definitions of a just war to elucidate his theme, for his essay focused upon the criteria societies must develop in order to judge whether any contemplated military action would be morally justified or morally indefensible.  In the final analysis, both Matsuoka and Stackhouse derived their essay themes from Christian principles regarding justice, compassion, and ethics. 

Source

       Berquist, John.  Strike Terror No More: Theology, Ethics, and the New War.New York: Chalice Press, 2002.

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