hmmm
David posted this and I thought it sounded interesting so I'll re-post it:
"This summer I read a book called "The Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide" by Samantha Power. It's quite an amazing book. All about how the US hardly ever intervenes in cases of genocide; we always do what's best for us. The book chronicles all the major genocides of the twentieth century in a very vivid way while it also creates perspective on US history. Cambodia, Iraq, Yugoslavia...all are discussed. One thing that stands out most from this book is how so many government officials always avoid using the word genocide. The word is so important because it necessitates action, which the US generally never wants to do. Look at what's happening with the US and Turkey. The issue of declaring the killings of the Armenians by Turks during and after WWI is still an issue, and if you read what a lot of politicians (mostly republican) have to say about it, you'll find that they avoid the word at all cost. Human dignity and "respect for life" only count for so much. When we need resources from Turkey to continue the war in Iraq, suddenly the idea of labeling that government's previous actions as genocidal becomes an issue. But I digress. I just want to say that I think everyone ought to read her book. It's incredibly well written, and it will surely make you pay attention to the issue of genocide and human rights. With that said, Samantha Power is coming to IPFW to give a lecture on November 13 at 7:30 pm. Read the book, then listen to her speak. I promise you won't be disappointed."
"This summer I read a book called "The Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide" by Samantha Power. It's quite an amazing book. All about how the US hardly ever intervenes in cases of genocide; we always do what's best for us. The book chronicles all the major genocides of the twentieth century in a very vivid way while it also creates perspective on US history. Cambodia, Iraq, Yugoslavia...all are discussed. One thing that stands out most from this book is how so many government officials always avoid using the word genocide. The word is so important because it necessitates action, which the US generally never wants to do. Look at what's happening with the US and Turkey. The issue of declaring the killings of the Armenians by Turks during and after WWI is still an issue, and if you read what a lot of politicians (mostly republican) have to say about it, you'll find that they avoid the word at all cost. Human dignity and "respect for life" only count for so much. When we need resources from Turkey to continue the war in Iraq, suddenly the idea of labeling that government's previous actions as genocidal becomes an issue. But I digress. I just want to say that I think everyone ought to read her book. It's incredibly well written, and it will surely make you pay attention to the issue of genocide and human rights. With that said, Samantha Power is coming to IPFW to give a lecture on November 13 at 7:30 pm. Read the book, then listen to her speak. I promise you won't be disappointed."