John, I know what you mean. I'm inclined to see it simply as a problem of scale - I'm not that sold on the autonomy and inviolability of the nation state. But in the end, isn't it just a question of power? The oppressed are powerless, whether they are children or adults. The West is powerful and is in a position with respect to Iraq to intervene with reasonable prospect of success. Moreover, we often hear it said that as soon as American troops enter the country, the Iraqis, including the military, will rise up against Saddam - in other words, they will step up to the plate as soon as they think they've got a chance of hitting the ball (have I got the metaphor right?). But that remains to be seen.

By the way, is there any difference between a modern and a postmodern theology as far as these issues are concerned? I would have thought a postmodern theology would be less inclined to warmonger. Is that right?