Michael,
I can empathize with your dilemma. I had to read your article and think what I might do if faced with the same challenge. I believe, contrary to Mark's position that I would make the same decision as you.

My first thought was actually, who is the enemy here. I believe I might suggest the enemies are the governments more so than that citizens of each country. I also understand that the government of Iran may in fact be contributing directly to the death of Americans in Iraq, but that still does not make your PhD candidate connection your enemy either.

I believe that non-military cooperation between countries, aka trade, has a better chance of creating peace between those countries than some of the other methods that have been tried throughout history.

I commend you on your decision, and hope I exercise the same courage when it is my turn.

Take care,

Mike Edwards - mike@directyourcareer.com

http://www.directyourcareer.com