Zeev's Turnips Talk Politics (ZTTP)

[Zeev Hed]

Sword, I think that Rumsfeld comment was at least "tasteless", stating that critics of the war or the management of its aftermath are in essence "aiding and abetting" the enemy. Such comments are intended to muzzle such voices, are they not? If not why even address that question. We are in no immediate danger of extermination by our foes, we are not even in danger of severe damage to us (except economic) as a result of the current conflict in Iraq. other democratic countries, in much greater (perceived) danger to their survival, like Israel, are not attempting to muzzle opposing voices to the government political and military path, I really do not see why should we. If nothing else, it simply "smell" bad, and has an intonation of "cry baby". In essence finding a scapegoat, for the failings (if these are failings) of an existing policy. Without an active opposition voicing questions and demanding answers, reexamination (a process that should be a continuing task) of the premises on which a given policy is based is in essence non existent. Such opposing voices and suggestions of different approaches is very healthy and should not be muzzled.