The general tone of the continuing dialogue between individuals and groups concerned with war, foreign policy in general, and morality is partly the result of the contradictions inherent in what I shall here term the “nuclear obsession.” While precise definitions are not critical in an essay of this sort, the nuclear obsession is defined here as the point of view, or state of mind, which holds that nuclear questions are of such overriding importance in the conduct of war and foreign policy that they dwarf all other questions. Those who attempt to think most precisely about what the world ultimately may have to do if it is to come to grips with the nuclear problem are not at all afraid of massive political change.

If one believes in the universal brotherhood of man, the idea of a world polity—long available in history—is becoming today more desirable, more feasible and more urgent. But the question then arises: how can I help achieve justice with and among my international brothers, realizing that the nation-state presently and necessarily is the primary vehicle for international actions? How can religion and moral authority contribute to this objective?