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The war on terror continues, our work in Afghanistan is not done, coalition troops remain in Iraq, and will be there for the foreseeable future. Everyone agrees that the national security threat of the 21st Century is terrorism. We know that those who do not take account of history are bound to repeat it. Providing for the common defense is perhaps the most important constitutionally mandated role for the federal government. This is why: we have already lost the real war. Conservatives want a society in which people live a proper human life. Our laws, however, which reflect the morality of our ruling groups, incentivize the improper life: through easy divorce, abortion, and bastardy; non-responsibility for family; socialist public schools; social services for drunks and addicts; public pornography; state gambling; redistribution of wealth; and feeble penalties for murder. If we weren't living still on the capital amassed by our Judeo-Christian forebears, we'd be like Russia.

The federal government must focus on the terror threat in order to fulfill its duty to the citizenry. Just as terrorism is the defining national security issue of our time, 9/11 is the event that defined terrorism for nearly all Americans. It is absolutely necessary for our leaders to learn from 9/11 and apply the lessons learned in virtually every policy decision. The people must be reminded of the tragedy in order for them to properly order their political priorities.

On the other hand, the real significance of 9/11 is personal and cultural, not political. The federal government was responsible for national security before 9/11 just as it is today. There is much to be learned from 9/11 for those who defend our country. However, beyond that we need to let it go. Also, 9/11 has become a political football. Republicans, including President George W. Bush, use this event to prop up arguments in favor of excessive federal spending and programs that may adversely impact liberty in America. Democrats attempt to exploit the terrorism issue to demonstrate that President Bush is not doing what is necessary to keep America safe. Allow our nation’s military, the FBI and the CIA to do their jobs. Beyond that, let us all forget 9/11 and move to the other vexing problems faced by our nation.

The Chairman, a brilliant and well-educated, yet amiable, fellow, has called for a debate to settle the question:

Resolved: Remember 9/11 .

The Debate will be held on Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at the University Club, 420 Summit Avenue, in Saint Paul. The Chancellor will preside over drinks beginning at seven o'clock p.m. The debate will begin at half past seven. While there is no dress code for attendance, gentlemen who wish to speak must wear a tie; ladies should adhere to a similar sartorial standard. For those gentlemen who arrive tieless yet wish to speak, fret not: the Purveyor of Ties will keep on hand at least one of his quite remarkable ties for just such an eventuality. Questions about debate caucus procedures or about the John Adams Society itself may be directed to the Chairman at (612) 703-6021 or the Secretary at (952) 985-7776.

If you would like to receive email announcements of upcoming debates, email the John Adams Society with your name, email address, and a simple statement requesting future "Whip Sheets" via email.