This is all we talked about in my Western Civilization class today. I felt
like I was being propogandized. Yes, my professor is an authority on Middle
and Near-Eastern history, but today his biases were very present (and he at
least stated this). I learned why the US is so hated by these cultures.
However, I honestly wish that the discussion had not taken place. The
animosity in the room was tangible; I was ready to walk out.
It seems that most people are ready to drop a nuclear weapon on Afghanistan
without the proper proof that they (or people they are harboring) are at
fault. Americans are too used to the instant gratification approach, and
they are demanding blood. I don't want a bomb dropped; I don't want a war. I
want the US to figure out (and be sure of) who the perpetrators are and find
a way to punish them without harming those not responsible. I don't care
that nearly all Islamic fundamentalists hate the US - not all of them are
responsible (IF it turns out bin Laden is responsible). Pressure their
economy until the Taliban releases bin Laden to the US. The world doesn't
need any more unnecessary deaths, particularly in the name of vengeance.
I right now am fearful for the Arab-Americans in the US. There have already
been ignorant New Yorkers who have attacked 7-11s and gas stations. This
morning when I went to buy cigarettes at the gas station, I didn't attack
the man behind the cash register; I asked him if all of his loved ones were
alright. His response: <grateful smile> "Yes. Thank you so much."
This may inflame some here and I do apologize if that is the case, but I
must say this: religion has fucked up the world again.
