The vast majority of people on this planet yearn for the world to be a better place and want nothing more than to live in peace. I think not. Some recent letters have taken the position that any response to the terrorist attacks would be wrong. This position seems to be based on the idea that all violence is equal, even when it is in the form of punishment. I feel obligated to explain why a violent response to the attacks is not only valid but required.
All humans have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
America has codified these basic rights, and that is exactly what this country should stand for. In a proper society no person has the right to initiate violence against another. Initiated violence always takes away some part of happiness, liberty or life and cannot be allowed. In a proper society, no person has the right to retaliate against initiated violence. That is the responsibility that we assign to our government, and vigilante justice cannot be tolerated.