Mandela - firstly, I think you got the code part right but as to whether or not he was talking about european style democracy vs third world dictator that’s not entirely clear, maybe a bit of a stretch since his experience was with neither. Of course if your characterization is the code, racism, on both sides of the divide would not be far behind, and you’re bluffing yourself if you think that then you're no longer talking about race anyway.
I did think his comment sounded odd and thought that perhaps something of this was left on the cutting room floor. Although I’m not here to make excuses for him, note where he went when asked to elaborate. There is a lot of residue out there, history leaves a shadow.
Secondly, If your point is that race is an inappropriate prism through which to view the conflict, why do you keep bringing it up.
Jokes aside I think you make a valid point about the framework and I agree. I was discussing his comment with Tony Karon (I only bring his name up because you’ve posted some of his articles, and have been puzzled by some of them too) - when I asked him about it, he looked at me, smiled and shrugged his shoulders - granted he had a drink in his hand at the time.
which is religous/ideological at bottom
<>One person with a belief is equal to a force of ninety-nine with only interests.<> -John Stuart Mill, economist. |
