Boy, you have a hard time grasping the idea of arguing a point.
"Fairly rapidly" means, in this context, within a generation or two, as far as inculcating a true democratic culture goes. This is by comparison with my analysis of assimilation to a language, which generally is not complete until the third generation. The ability to use language comes somewhat clumsily within the first generation, suggesting that learning democracy well- enough for present purposes will not take a very long time. The sole differentiation between those with a stake in democratization, even if imperfect, and those without it will be the desire for peace and prosperity over all, and the ability of the Iraqi government and the remaining Coalition forces to make progress in containing the insurgent forces.
As for the second statement, it is simply a matter of historical comparison. Of course we deplore any lose of life or limb, but it is ludicrous to talk about extensive casualties compared to other conflicts in which we have engaged.
There were military men in tune with Rumsfeld, and those who were not. It is simplistic to make it a civilian/government conflict, as if Rumsfeld had no allies in the military. Those same people who objected to the post- War strategy predicted disaster in the invasion phase, and were dead wrong.
"There is no valid comparison....etc." Thanks for the 411. As argument, it is worthless.
Every time there has been a transition from dictatorship or monarchy to democracy, it has involved cultural change and. therefore, education. In some instances, the cultural change has been gradual, in others, it has been forced. Since adherence to democracy is merely a way of providing a framework for social controversies, avoiding bloodshed and establishing fair ground rules, people are being asked for relatively little in adhering to it. That is why it is far different than a truly ideologically driven social experiment. Everyone has a stake in peace and prosperity, and only the most extreme elements could object to solving conflicts peacefully....... |
