Letters to the Editor, Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Oct. 9, 2001.

Respect for law argues for declaration of war

To the editor:

The national administration, as part of its response to the monstrous illegalities of Sept. 11, has spoken often of going to war in or against one or more countries harboring terrorists.

Attacks have been launched against Afghan targets. Now we hear talk about Iraqi targets.

There still seems to be time, in the present circumstances, to have Congress consider a declaration of war against any country to be attacked by us.

Such a declaration, preceded by a proper debate in Congress, would help clarify the current situation and focus everyone's attention upon what is to be done, why, and how. It would be healthy to see, through such salutary self-discipline, a reaffirmation in this country of the constitutional proprieties and the rule of law.

George Anastaplo
Professor, Loyola University Chicago School of Law