Martin Peretz of the New Republic wrote an article, from which I have taken three sentences that appeared back-to-back. This patter is making news just now because Mr. Peretz is up for a Harvard honor, which he will receive but at which event he is no longer invited to make a speech. (Lacking Solomonic wisdom, Harvard is going to slice the baby in two.)
Peretz' entire opinion piece can be read at: http://www.tnr.com/blog/77475/the-new-york-times-laments-sadly-wary-misunderstanding-muslim-americans-really-it-sadly-w
The three sentences of Mr. Peretz, which I address are:
(1) "But, frankly, Muslim life is cheap, most notably to Muslims."
(2) "And among those Muslims led by the Imam Rauf there is hardly one who has raised a fuss about the routine and random bloodshed that defines their brotherhood."
(3) "So, yes, I wonder whether I need honor these people and pretend that they are worthy of the privileges of the First Amendment which I have in my gut the sense that they will abuse."
Mr. Peretz has apologized for sentence Number 3. For this statement of apology, see http://www.tnr.com/blog/the-spine/77607/martin-peretz-apology
As to his assertion that "Muslim life is cheap" Mr Peretz sees this as a statement of "fact."
As to his criticism that "Muslims led by the Imam Rauf" have "hardly raised a fuss" about the killings of Muslims by Muslims which "defines their brotherhood" neither Mr Peretz nor any of his critics (whom I have read) are exercised by this comment.
All of this patter (including my own statements) reflect shouts from the bleachers, which actual players are entitled to ignore.
Death by murder is horrendous, whether on a small or large scale, whether motivated by private grievances, religious zealotry, warfare, or mental illness. It seems very much beside the point to fault bystanders for not shouting loudly enough, after the fact.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
TEA PARTY ASPIRANT, NOW NOMINEE, CHANGES POSITIONS ON MASTURBATION, ABORTION, MILITARY READINESS
Christine O'Donnell said in the 90's that she knew many virgins who were not "sexually pure" because they had looked at pornography. "The Bible says that lust in your heart is committing adultery. You can't masturbate without lust."
She has also said that abortion is wrong and ought to be against the law. Period.
She has also stated that women ought not to be permitted to serve in the military, as this would undermine US military readiness.
Presumably, these views helped her secure the GOP nomination for the US Senate. But these are no longer her views.
On Sept 16, 2010, at a candidate's forum, she retreated from all of this.
On masturbation, the unmarried nominee now says,"It's personal." She explained her earlier condemnation of masturbation, this way: "I was in my twenties and very excited and passionate about my newfound faith. But I can assure you, my faith has matured."
On abortion, O'Donnell now says, she would support a woman's right to get an abortion if her life was at risk.
She added, "Uncle Sam has no business in the examination room coming between you and your doctor."
On whether women ought to be permitted to have careers in the military, she now says, "Yeah, of course."
Nothing like getting nominated to turn a right wing nut into an inconsistent right wing nut.
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