How many more must die? - reaction to James Foley video

Following the release of the video depicting the alleged beheading of American journalist James Foley by ISIS, I’ve seen many governments and corporations advocate the banning of said video.  This is to be expected; such violence “encourages more violence,” “gives the terrorists what they want,” and is “too disturbing and disrespectful for the public eye” (not actual quotes, but similar sentiments to those given).  It makes sense that a video in which the victim seems to accuse the US government of being responsible for his death would not be one of the US’ favorites.

However, while the banning of the video by governments and corporations should be no surprise, I’ve also seen, disturbingly enough, outcries by members of the public for disallowing posts such as this.  Of course, it is graphic, and it could be said to be disrespectful to Foley’s family to view it, but no one is being forced to watch it.  The decision of whether or not to do so should be made on an individual basis, not enforced by some outside party.

Furthermore, are we so isolated and pretentious as to think that the words and demonstrations of clearly dangerous people ought to be disregarded?  Of course, by no means do I advocate allowing ourselves to be swept into the fray on the chariot of rash actions and mere retaliation, but should we not at least take in the information?  Unless we do, how are we to properly address it?

By the way, according to the video, the way to address it is to leave the Middle East.  Shockingly enough, they want to be left alone.  Naturally, if they brought the fight here, we would respond accordingly, but, just as I doubt many Americans would appreciate foreign interference in one of our conflicts, they do not appreciate our involvement in theirs.

Now, before you accuse me of not having a heart, let me say: of course I mourn the innocent lives being lost in this conflict.  I don’t like it any more than you do.  However, this war, in one form or another, has been waged for centuries.  How long will we stay involved?  How many of our own people must die in this never-ending conflict before we bring them home?

Thomas Jefferson said it best: “Peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations; entangling alliances with none.”