It is rather the lie, inasmuch as it can't prevail by force of argument, that necessarily gives birth to violence or the threat of it. (firstthings.com)
After considering several forms of such response, Ignatieff concludes by returning once again to the promise offered by democracy, arguing that the ultimate answer to terrorism must be persuasion: «We must be able to defend ourselves» with force of arms, but even more with force of argument. (firstthings.com)
MacDonald realizes the muted force of her argument, as she hedges her position on the final page. (firstthings.com)