"In the past, when individuals disagreed with an editorial, they would write a letter to the editor politely expressing a different point of view in contrast to the views of the publishers, which we have usually published.... The new mode of operation, I am told, is that when a newspaper prints an editorial of which some sectors might disagree, the focus is now upon how to run the newspaper out of business.... Unfortunately, for the Iconoclast and its publishers there have been threats — big ones including physical harm.
...Next time you hear a Republican crowing about how the Republicans are the party of values, I want you to think about the values of threatening and harrassing newspaper employees who aren't even on the editorial staff. I want to you think about the values of trying to silence those who disagree with you, rather than offering articulate reasoning as to why you disagree. And then I want you to think about what kind of values they're really selling you.
Yes, I agree: I am rude and condescending when it comes to politics. In return, I put up with rude and condescending comments from many of my circle, because it's only fair. But I have never threatened those of opposing viewpoints with physical harm (well, maybe
If I make it through the next month without losing my fucking mind, it'll be a fucking miracle.
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Date: 2004-10-11 05:11 pm (UTC)We haven't gotten quite to that stage yet down here in Australia, but I think that's mainly because most Australians simply refuse to take themselves too seriously. (Might be something in the beer) Heh.
I'm annoyed at our recent elections though, as the Prime Monster has returned to power for a fourth term (there is no limit to the number of terms a prime minister can serve down here). His platform was lies, fear and B.S. and his opponent tried to lead a campaign of hope and promise for the future. Sadly, the B.S. campaign won.
I hope that this doesn't foreshadow the results of the US elections. :S