Torture and the Ticking Time Bomb

The police has arrested a terrorist in Lincoln, RI. He claims he has placed a large bomb somewhere in town. He says it will detonate in less than 2 hours. He refuses to to disclose the location of the bomb. Two hours is not enough time to call for an orderly evacuation of the town. The panic may actually cause greater injury. Do we torture the terrorist suspect until we determine the location and diffuse the bomb? Or do we chance a hurried evacuation that may cause countless accidents? And how do you reach everyone in town to inform them of this crisis? What about the sick and elderly in town? How do we remove them in under 2 hours? Is torture the best and only response? What do you do? Meanwhile - tick, tick, tick... Please post a response by Monday, February 4.

Contra Faustum

Consider Augustine's justification of when war is permissable and write a response to it. Do you agree? disagree? Explain why. Is he realistic in his assessment of humanity? What are the points that make sense to you? What does not? Please post a response by Thursday, January 31.

Why are you here?

This particular subject has both fascinated and nauseated people throughout history. We are horrified by war and yet history is oftentimes a story of warfare. We are repulsed by the horrors of war, but yet we cannot help ourselves and want to know more about it. We will study conflict and take an in-depth look at genocide. However, we will also consider ways to forge lasting peace in the world. For now, tell us why you want to take this class. What is your interest and your goal for this class? Please post a response by Friday, January 25.