Retribution

I've been sitting in front of my computer for the last two days (and for almost ten days sometime two weeks ago) writing a paper on how one responds to mass atrocities. The usual indecision that plagues my existence has led to me changing my opinion on the issue every two hours or so.

I have this little note at the end of my draft paper that reads:

"Conclusion: Argue for setting up of a Permanent International Truth and Reconciliation Commission".

Fifteen minutes ago, it read, "Conclusion: Argue for selective prosecution of perpetrators".

At 6 pm, it read, "Conclusion: Argue for dividing prosecution between national courts and International Criminal Court".

At 10 am, when I began work for the day, it read, "Conclusion: ?".

At 11.40 pm last night, it read, "Conclusion: Restorative justice rocks. My dear Waldo, you're right. Retribution is what the uncivilised opt for."

When I resumed work on this paper last morning, after one week of submitting other papers, it read, "Conclusion: Argue for screwing the bastards. Castrate all of them! (yes, I did assume they'd all be men!)"

What DOES one do with mass human rights violators?!