Suchergebnisse

The problem of refugee asylum is seen to force decisions on ethical, political, legal, & economic grounds. Historically, the church, synagogue, & mosque have been recognized as the proper places of refuge for persons fleeing political & other persecution. The ethical grounds for this are statements in the Hebrew, Islamic, & Christian scriptures commanding the exercise of compassion & help for those in need. Exactly what this means in terms of offering asylum is differently interpreted, however, by the major churches. Discussed is whether it is legal to give asylum to people who have not obtained or have been denied political asylum. Civil disobedience is analyzed in this regard, & eight criteria are identified that justify its use in specific cases. It is hoped that US foreign policy can be changed so that the granting of asylum will not lead to the murder of those who are deported or who escape. The case of Sana Chirino Amaya, a 24-year-old Salvadorian who had his head cut off when he returned, is a dramatic case in point. A Comment by Leonard W. Doob (Yale U, New Haven, Conn) is provided. Modified AA.

Ernest Gellner's "Reflections on Philosophy, Especially in America" in the June Worldview contains so many perceptive and challenging statements that it merits a reply. It is also sufficiently confused and dubious in its conclusions as to require criticism. As a teacher of philosophy for over two decades, I am concerned about philosophy's role in contemporary and national life, and hence I am stimulated to make the following points.What is the essence of Professor Gellner's assessment?