Notwithstanding the terrible realities of Gaza and the West Bank, the central
issue between the Israelis and Palestinians is philosophical, and based in
Jerusalem. Like most cities, Jerusalem is divided by competing political and
religious philosophies. Unfortunately, the competition associated with these
well-meaning philosophies often creates unintended conflict. I propose that
Jerusalem, and other cities, counteract such conflict by developing a new, non-
political, non-religious, non-competitive philosophy based on our common
humanity. Such a philosophy would emphasize that all people, regardless of
politics or religion, or any other divisive factor, share common origins, needs,
and rights.

Competing interests:
None declared