Readers weigh in on prosecuting for government actions in the wake of 9/11

Readers discuss executive power and the law; torture; and prosecution for government acts in the wake of the terror attacks. Read their opinions and share yours.

When should a government be permitted to violate its own laws? How should such occurrences be handled after the fact? In this issue's Forum, Charles Fried, Beneficial professor of law at Harvard, and his son Gregory Fried ’83, professor of philosophy at Suffolk University, examine legal and philosophical arguments, with examples from American history. The authors focus their attention on the response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks—and ultimately disagree about whether they favor prosecution of government officials.

Read the article, then answer our question to readers this issue:

Do you think the U.S. government's actions in the wake of 9/11 were justified? Do you favor prosecution for some elements of the response to the terror attacks?

We hope you'll join the conversation by leaving a comment below. (Please note: because this discussion is moderated, your comment will not appear immediately.)

Related topics

You might also like

Making Waves with Philosophy

A conversation with Harvard professor Michael Sandel

Your Views on Conservatism on Campus, Doxxing, and More

Readers write in about international students at Harvard, the September-October cover, and changes at the Chan School of Public Health.

Your Views on Harvard’s Standoff, Antisemitism, and More

Readers comment on the controversial July-August cover, authoritarianism, and scientific research.

Most popular

Why Men Are Falling Behind in Education, Employment, and Health

Can new approaches to education address a growing gender gap?

Harvard 2012 annual financial report shows break-even year

Harvard reports a break-even 2012 in its annual financial report—and paints a stark picture of new fiscal realities.

The 1884 Cannibalism-at-Sea Case That Still Has Harvard Talking

The Queen v. Dudley and Stephens changed the course of legal history. Here’s why it’s been fodder for countless classroom debates.

Explore More From Current Issue

A girl sits at a desk, flanked by colorful, stylized figures, evoking a whimsical, surreal atmosphere.

The Trouble with Sidechat

No one feels responsible for what happens on Harvard’s anonymous social media app.

Lawrence H. Summers, looking serious while speaking at a podium with a microphone.

Harvard in the News

Grade inflation, Epstein files fallout, University database breach 

A bald man in a black shirt with two book covers beside him, one titled "The Magicians" and the other "The Bright Sword."

Novelist Lev Grossman on Why Fantasy Isn’t About Escapism

The Magicians author discusses his influences, from Harvard to King Arthur to Tolkien.