Bush threats set dangerous precedent

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution ^ | 01/31/2002 | Jay Bookman

[hauerf]

Bush threats set dangerous precedent

By JAY BOOKMAN
Atlanta Journal-Constitution Columnist

Within the community of nations, the United States has long been the big guy whom most members respected if not admired. Where we led, other nations have been willing to follow, not out of fear but because we have had the decency to treat others with respect when -- by virtue of our power -- we really didn't need to.

Of course, when we've been provoked, or when our allies have been threatened, we have also fought with an unholy fervor. That too earned us respect. But unlike previous empires, from the Soviets and British all the way back to the Romans and the Macedonians, we have tried to behave as if we were first among equals, not a king among its subjects. That has proved a wise and successful strategy.

[It's all downhill from there for Mr. Bookman. For the rest of this lout's opinion, follow the link to his column: www.accessatlanta.com/ajc/opinion/bookman/2002/013102

[hauerf]

Bookman seems unaware of how completely one nuclear missile or suitcase bomb explosion in downtown Atlanta could ruin his day. Further revealing his weak mind, he treats statements of leaders of various other countries, no matter how timid and/or politic these men may be for publication, as though we should take them literally. I should give this a barf alert, but I'm letting it ride.

[linn37]

so we should all just wait untill they attack as we did on 9-11? No thanks! The President is right lets play offense.

[Eric in the Ozarks]

Back trouble (yellow stripe variety)at the Journal.

[hauerf]

Good diagnosis. The photos of columnists that often accompany their blather should include shots taken from the rear.

[Right_in_Virginia]

"The president proclaimed an American right and intention to use force against any nation that refuses to abide by our demands, even if they provide no other provocation for attack."

Nooo. The president considers the governments who give aid, comfort, and arms to the terrorists who have pledged their lives to kill us--a provocation demanding a swift and deadly preemptive response from the United States.

I'd like to see a requirement that before someone writes an opinion about the president's intentions they must listen to and read what he has actually said.

[Publius6961]

Where we led, other nations have been willing to follow, not out of fear but because we have had the decency to treat others with respect when...

Dear Mr. Bookman:
That makes sense when dealing with other countries which, although hostile, are susceptible to reason, and beyond the reach of the irrationaily inherent in the Arab/Muslim culture.
The one thing that the Muslim culture has always respected is fear, so it seems totally appropriate to employ it.
You may have heard about a little incident that happened on Sept. 11, 2001 which made it clear a different approach is necessary with people who are functionally savages.

[Madstrider]

Consider the source...

The history of man is strewn with empires and civilizations that were toppled by barbarians. The current crop of Huns would dash the whole of the civilized world into a new dark age. The United Nation's lack of leadership at such a crucial time points out its uselessness and the need for the world's remaining super-power to defend the free world.