Dialogue Questions 11/22/2009

November 19, 2009

by Dick Tatro (Taterchief@aol.com)

Moderator - I will introduce myself and give an opening statement. This will be followed by the introduction of the Officers. Eric if you want to you can introduce officers or you can have them introduce themselves.

I will start with the first question that Eric sent to me. “How do you reconcile the paradox inherent in pacifism that, whether or not want to, you relay on others willing to use force in order to preserve your right to practice your beliefs?”

The next question is for the officers. What were your original motivation /goal to have a dialogue with pacifists? Has this evolved or changed?

Question 3 Christian Pacifism seems to be based on a rejection of popular social norms and a belief in separation of church and state. So how do you justify advocacy of some public issues if you are unwilling to accept the authority of the government in all areas?

Question 4 The next question will be directed to the officers. My Suggestion: Do you believe that the military is justified in taking part in the political process in a country that cedes military control to civilians? Examples making public statements about the civilian leadership in an effort to sway public opinion. Example McArthur and Truman over tactics during the Korean War.

Question 5 The Army traditionally granted CO status to members of historically “Peace” churches. With no draft today do you support members of your church volunteering for the non-combat roles that were at one time filled by those of CO status?

Question 6 Do you think that the all-volunteer military is working? Or is it leading to the enlistment of candidates who might not be up to the standards that the draft did?

Question 7 Why did you personally make the decision to join the military? Has reality of the military of the military life changed your perception?

Question 8 Does the military accept the concept of civilian control?

1. Truman and the Atomic Bomb.
2. Truman and the firing of MacArthur

Open questions and answers.