While Obama used his Nobel Peace Prize speech to legitimize Afghanistan using just war principles, soldiers are currently unable to invoke these principles in refusing to serve. When we punish soldiers who heed their moral compasses, we deny them religious freedom, and our democracy is threatened. It’s time to allow those who oppose the war on ethical grounds the option of ‘Selective Conscientious Objection.’
Gabriella Lettini
Gabriella Lettini is Director of Studies in Public Ministry and Religious Leadership for Social Change at the Starr King School for the Ministry.
