Sign up to receive email newsletters about the
latest research for the topic areas that
interest you.
War and Dissent: A Prophetic Tradition
Publication Date: April 2002
Publisher(s): National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership (U.S.)
Author(s): David Kraemer
Series: CLAL Politics and Policy Archive
Special Collection: Berman Jewish Policy Archive
Topic: Culture and religion (Culture and civilization)
Culture and religion (Religion and religious groups)
Keywords: Government; Political Behavior; Values
Type: Brief
Coverage: United States
Abstract:
The author responds to those who question the patriotism of criticizing political and military leaders in a time of war. He argues that, along with the Greek tradition of democracy, the United States has inherited a Biblical tradition of prophecy, of protest and complaint, for justice and mercy, even in the midst of war. Suppressing that voice means suppressing the ethical soul of the nation, and we should praise those who question the rightness of our policies, whether in war or peace.