re: #10 Phlebas

But since you imply that the existence of the UN has a causal relationship - not a correlation - with the statistics of international conflict, I think that it is ok to ask you for your references and proofs.

Do you disagree with the general contention that diplomacy prevents wars?

I agree that the UN does good work in the area of public health through the WHO; it is not clear to me that other organizations (ICRC et al) would not be able to fill that niche in the UN’s stead.

So what? They’re the ones doing it now. They deserve credit for it.

re: #11 Phlebas

No clue what discussion you’re talking about.