Suchergebnisse

Analyzes the increasing urban violence in Latin America & the Caribbean as a social problem that has been created by economic, cultural, & structural factors, & therefore can be prevented, controlled, & eradicated. Victims are defined as persons who have suffered "physical, mental, or emotional injury; economic loss; or substantial damage to their fundamental rights, individually or collectively, through acts or omissions that violate laws that operate in each state." A description of the magnitude & dimensions of the problem looks at the homicide rate in countries in Latin America & the Caribbean, as well as incidences of violence against children, adolescents, & women. The impact of rapid urban growth on violence is explored along with different perceptions of violence & insecurity. A classification of violence by type, motive, victimizers, & victims is offered as a tool for recognizing the different factors that generate or facilitate its occurrence. Strategies for confronting violence are outlined, maintaining that prevention should be favored over repression, & special attention is given to vulnerable groups. 3 Tables. J. Lindroth

The issue of whether morally unjustifiable means (ie, war crimes) can be used by state military forces to accomplish morally justifiable ends in times of war is contemplated. It is contended that human rights impose certain constraints on the means & ends of wartime behavior. Consequently, crimes that violate human rights committed against aggressor forces are deemed morally permissible since the perpetrators were attempting to violate the human rights of the defenders. However, two categories of war crimes that essentially violate human rights are identified: actions in which (1) aggressor states attempt to dominate other groups for purposes of self-aggrandizement regardless of such groups' human rights & (2) military forces inflict unnecessary injury (eg, rape & torture) on subjugated groups. It is claimed that justifiable ends realized through the use of unjustifiable means cannot be morally legitimized. It is concluded that international law has a moral responsibility to establish guidelines for preventing & punishing violations of human rights during times of war. J. W. Parker

Examines the origins, motivations, & evolution of current & past Sikh fundamentalism, described as a reactive phenomenon driven by many factors, primarily fear of Others. The 1983 storming of the Golden Temple of Amritsar by Indian troops & death of Sikh fundamentalist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who occupied it, is used as a context for discussion. Bhindranwale's militant interpretation of the basic teachings of Sikh religious tradition, which denied its pacifism, piety, & religious tolerance, is analyzed. Similar calls for return to fundamental values & teachings during the 19th century, as seen in the Nirankari & Namdhari movements, are described. It is shown how Sikh fundamentalism has been shaped more by employing traditional elements for contemporary uses than returning to the values of the past, as exemplified by efforts to establish an exclusive Sikh identity during the early 20th century. Events following the 1983 raid & the forces (Hindu militancy, a deep sense of injury felt after the raid) shaping the scattered, fractious, & exclusionist nature of current Sikh fundamentalism are discussed. It is concluded that Sikh fundamentalism is unlikely to dissipate any time soon, & what is needed is a reevaluation of the relations between state, religion, & society. Bibliog. T. Arnold