In the ceaseless struggle between civilization and barbarism, America has tipped the scales toward civilization, toward freedom and justice. In many ways, it has organized its national life—its economic, military, and moral resources—toward this end. Are we still up to the task?

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals rejected President Trump’s attempt to reinstate his executive order pausing refugee travel to the U.S., but it is still useful to understand the executive order’s purpose and some of its larger points.