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Richard H. Schwartz, Ph.D. July 29, 2002
     
As a strong supporter of Israel's right to live in security and prosperity, a strong opponent of terrorism and other acts of senseless violence and the father of two daughters living in Israel, along with their husbands and my seven grandchildren, I want to commend you for giving space to voices actively seeking a political solution in the Middle East. At a time when so many are trapped by the rhetoric of war and violence, it is important that moderate voices be heard so that others will not feel isolated, marginalized and voiceless. At a time of widespread Palestinian terror which has resulted in Israelis being very much afraid to live their normal lives, go to public places, attend family gatherings in public spaces, even to ride on buses, and the hatred that is being taught in Palestinian schools, and much more, I fully understand the feeling that peace is not possible at this time. I also recognize that previous Israeli efforts toward peace have been rebuffed. However, I believe that we have a choice today between, in the words in the title of a book by Buckminster Fuller, "Utopia or Oblivion." As difficult as it will be, if the Israelis and Palestinians, with the support of international groups and the nations of the world, can find a way to live cooperatively in peace, using modern technology and the world's resources, there can be far better conditions for all the people in the Middle East and beyond. However, continuation of present animosities and policies threatens ‘ oblivion’: endless violence, terrorism, war, economic recession, and environmental degradation for not only the Palestinians and Israelis who are already suffering in so many ways, but potentially all the world's people. I believe, very respectfully, that it is time that we moved beyond finding reasons to demonize our opponents, and started using our wisdom and resources to seek creative ways to end the present horrors and impasse and seek a long lasting solution that will benefit all of humanity.
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