EUROPE and war with Iraq

Many WAISers have simply stated their position on war with Iraq in repetitive statements. From them I select part of a statement by Cameron Sawyer on the attitude of Europeans: "Why do Europeans consider a straightforward, clear statement of purpose to be "simplistic" and "overbearing"? "We must disarm Saddam" -- what, exactly, is wrong with that? I can only conclude that what really gets to many Europeans is the association between clear speaking and clear action. They cannot, or do not want to, take action, and resent those who can. For them, obfuscation itself (both linguistic and moral) is a rationale for inaction, as well as a defense against any discourse with the broader mass of people. European has slid a long ways downhill since Churchill's time. Bush, on the other hand, whether he is right or wrong on this particular issue, is speaking clearly, showing respect to and connecting with the broad mass of his people. He is practicing real democracy of a type which is dying out in Europe".

Ronald Hilton - 3/12/03