You have perfectly illustrated a product of rational thought and you seem to be using it to determine what else is needed beyond rational thought. Is there a missing ingredient?

Well, since in essence you asked that question, the thread seems open to replies from anyone. In my opinion there are multiple next steps depending on the arena. In Iraq the pot has to be sweet enough to tip the balance for the Islamic leadership away from the fruits of terrorism. On the world stage the source of the terrorists, excepting Osama, are the havenots. The pot must be sweetened for them as well. The have-nots can never be defeated because the haves are constantly providing a fresh supply.

But that begs the question. The question is, what's the missing ingredient? I think yanniru mentioned what it was: "Therein I see the hand of God". But the hand of God is not missing according to yanniru, if you read between the lines.

But in my opinion something human is missing. God does not guarantee peaceful outcomes. That is our collective choice. Along with yanniru I hope it will be a rational one.

I venture that democracy and democratic institutions come closest to a guaranttee of a peaceful outcome. However, I suspect that yanniru will just argue that democracy is the logical outcome of rational thought and that rational thought almost alone is sufficient.

• which presests a problem - carefuluniverse - July 15, 2005 - 14:18 UTC