Going to War

The United States has recently gone to war in Afghanistan and Iraq. In the past, the U.S. policy was to go to war only when attacked by another country. If all countries followed this policy, there would be no war. Many people would agree that in the case of Afghanistan the U.S. attack was a direct response to the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, and that this attack was not a change in U.S. policy. However, the attack on Iraq has been characterized as a "preemptive" attack, an attack designed to anticipate and prevent a threat to the United States. This is a change in policy for the U.S.

When, if ever, is it acceptable for one country to declare war on another country? In a well organized essay, explain your views. Support your argument with real events from history, news media, and your own experience.