God and global warming

In an effort to combat global warming, researchers from Harvard University are teaming up with the National Association of Evangelicals to spur governments, businesses and churches into action. Are the unlikely bedfellows the perfect solution for the global warming debate? Or does it tarnish science to work with religious leaders?

The recent agreement between prominent evangelicals and scientists to work together in the fight against global warming is a commendable milestone. Though some may dislike what they see as the blending of science and religion, this cooperative approach will likely be a beneficial endeavor. For some unwarranted reason environmentalism has been too often linked solely with liberal politics. With typically conservative leaders now lending their powerful support to environmental causes, hopefully the world will finally take notice that the earth is too precious to lose amidst petty political divisions. Furthermore, such teamwork serves as a wonderful demonstration of the possibility and importance of setting aside differences to work on a common goal. After all, liberal or conservative, religious or not, we all share the same home and working together on home improvement just seems like the logical, not to mention efficient, thing to do.

Jared Pflum is a religious studies senior.

Of course it is good news that the leadership of the NAE decided to get involved in efforts to slow global warming – and so soon after Republicans were voted into the minority. No coincidences with God, I suppose. But there is a very real danger to the “”alliance”” between the evangelical Christians and real scientists. It’s just like Stephen Colbert’s “”my black friend”” gag: give them a photo op with scientists, and you give them credibility on other issues. Forget for a moment that they reject many well-established principles of science, such as dead people stay dead. The NAE’s stance on many science policies, from stem cell research to HIV/AIDS prevention, will condemn millions to suffering and death. Allying with people who think like this will be a mistake over the long run. Scientists need to ask what they will profit if they gain evangelical votes but lose their souls.

Shane Hame is a first-year law student.

Hanging in the balance

It didn’t take long for video of Saddam Hussein’s execution to pop up on websites, and now videos of his recently decapitated aide are making the rounds. American news networks have refrained from airing the gory video, but war critics contend that seeing the execution brings home the gravity of the matter. Have U.S. news networks struck an appropriate balance between covering the story and basic decency? Or should the videos be aired for all to see?

The moments leading up to Saddam Hussein’s execution aired repeatedly on national television with the exception of the actual hanging. If the hanging is what you’re after, there is a simple solution – the Internet. With today’s technology, videos of all sorts are easily accessed online, including the cell phone footage of Hussein’s final seconds. Why is it necessary to place the execution, in its entirety, in the middle of the evening news? The story was covered thoroughly and most of the footage was shown. The American people are not missing anything by not seeing Saddam Hussein’s neck snap. I am not denying the reality of the situation, but there is a line that must be drawn. Television and the Internet are two entirely different entities. Having it online makes it available for those who wish to seek the footage. Broadcasting it on television is crossing the line.

Chelsea Jo Simpson is a journalism sophomore.

Saddam Hussein’s execution at the hands of the feeble autocrats who replaced him – complete with the tacit approval of the occupying nation, the United States – was ghastly and barbaric enough to rival any of the dictator’s own crimes. And Saddam loved it: He got to end his vile career as a hero and a martyr, screaming defiance, instead of meeting the pitiful fate he deserved – rotting away his days in a prison cell. The ugliness of his execution, currently available for viewing everywhere but on U.S. television, has not been lost on the public. No American likes to think of his country as a place that condones barbarism. Without being presented with the evidence, our reaction will be denial. It is the press’s role to give us this evidence, and Saddam’s execution, sickening as it is, is essential to understanding the depth of the mistake we have made in Iraq.

Justyn Dillingham is a junior majoring in political science and history..