To the Editor:

Historical injustices, real and perceived, create seeds of terrorism. Today’s policies create a fertile environment for the seeds of terrorism to flourish. 

The first environmental factor is overpopulation. Where there is cultural pressure and/or lack of access to birth control, high birth rates lead to overpopulation.

The second factor is finite local resources to sustain that population, including food, healthcare, education, housing, and employment that results in sustainable income for families. 

During the Great Depression, millions of young men and their families were saved by government-created employment in the CCC and other programs. Now with underemployment and low wages, millions of Americans are working themselves sick with little hope of progress. Illegitimate forms of income entice.

A further factor is lack of social cohesion. Today there is little to unify us. It is time to reinstate the draft. For those who do not wish to serve militarily, they may serve domestically working in troubled areas of our nation through AmeriCorps. Young Americans need a sense of belonging, responsibility, discipline, and citizenship.

When we address the environmental factors, we can prevent significant amounts of terrorism and gang-related violence. We owe it to ourselves and our children to address these issues effectively.

Dan Kowal

Franklin