The tragic events of September 11, 2001, saw four extremists attempt to extinguish the four pillars of freedom that form the bedrock of not only the United States but all nations that value liberty. These terrorists hijacked four planes, successfully striking three of their four intended targets: the Pentagon and the two financial towers in New York. This assault sent shockwaves through the U.S. and the world, resulting in death, destruction, and a global outcry for justice. While military action may be necessary, the most effective way to combat terrorism is by nurturing and promoting the four pillars of freedom worldwide.
The U.S. was targeted because it is a beacon of freedom in the world, representing ideals that are diametrically opposed to the beliefs of radical terrorists. They view the U.S. as an enemy that must be eradicated. So, what are these ideals that the U.S. embodies? They are the four pillars of freedom:
Freedom of Speech - This freedom is despised by terrorists as it challenges authority, allows for dissent, and encourages open dialogue. However, for nations that value freedom, free speech is a strength. It curbs corruption, fosters a robust spiritual environment, and promotes mutual understanding.
Freedom of Religion - This freedom is likely the most detested by terrorists. They believe in a single religion and expect everyone to conform to their interpretation of it. They do not practice true Islam, but a distorted version of it. In contrast, in the U.S. and other freedom-loving nations, people of all religions coexist peacefully, practicing their faith as they see fit.
Freedom of Self-Government (Democracy) - Terrorists are unequivocally against democracy, believing that spiritual leaders should have more say than the average citizen. However, in the free world, democracy is cherished. It ensures that everyone has rights and responsibilities, fostering unity.
Freedom of Individual Opportunity - This concept is alien to terrorists who believe in subordinating oneself to the group and their god. However, in nations that value freedom, individual opportunity is celebrated, leading to the growth of corporations and prosperity for citizens.
How should the U.S. and other freedom-loving nations respond to this attack? While some see this as the start of a war, no country has declared war. A network of terrorists is responsible for this atrocity. Some label this act as evil and call for its eradication. However, this is a dangerous path. Who gets to define what is evil? The terrorists have labeled the U.S. as evil, leading to disastrous consequences.
We are not fighting another country. While some military strikes may be necessary to demonstrate our resolve, this battle will not be won through military means alone. We are fighting a horrific attack on our way of life. Therefore, we must:
Some argue that we must sacrifice some of our freedoms to combat these terrorists. However, if we do this, the terrorists will have won. Instead of curtailing our freedoms, we should enhance them. Instead of extinguishing the four pillars of freedom, let us illuminate them brighter and make them stronger:
Free Speech - Some argue that we need to surrender some privacy and limit free speech during times of war. However, if we limit free speech, what are we fighting for? We must not only preserve free speech but also strengthen it.
Free Religion - Some propose using religious and ethnic profiling to monitor potential terrorists. However, we must allow everyone to practice their religion freely. We must not stifle one of our strengths and inadvertently aid the terrorists.
Self-Government - During crises, political leaders tend to become more secretive and authoritarian. However, we must avoid these pitfalls. We must be more open, inclusive, and eager for discussion and problem-solving.
Individual Opportunity - We must ensure that everyone has opportunities, especially during challenging economic times. This could involve rebuilding infrastructure to provide jobs for those who need them.
Not only the U.S., but all freedom-loving countries are under attack by terrorists. A winning strategy is to increase the number of countries that value freedom. We can do this by promoting the four pillars of freedom:
Free Speech - While we take free speech for granted, many places around the world only know what authorities allow them to know. We must counter propaganda with true information.
Free Religion - We must not keep this freedom to ourselves. Through various means, we must demonstrate the value of religious liberty to the world.
Self-Government - We must continue to promote democracy worldwide.
Individual Opportunity - Business people can contribute significantly here. Instead of focusing on business opportunities in rich countries, we should explore opportunities in poorer countries. This will help them develop and become loyal customers, thereby promoting individual opportunity and combating terrorism.
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