Maybe the Prof's are more objective than many in their nation

Submitted by Matt Pack (Australia), Jan 13, 2003 at 02:06

"Our comments appeared in our respective universities' student newspapers opposing the Bush administration's assertion of the right to launch a pre-emptive war against Iraq...

"The same position was voiced by numerous public figures, including members of the first Bush administration, former President Carter and members of Congress. It is the viewpoint of virtually every country in the world, including most of the long-time allies of the United States.

Neither of us offered any "excuse for dangerous and repressive regimes." It is one thing to deem a regime repressive, quite another to believe that the United States has the right to assume the unilateral role of global policeman."

As an Australian citizen, I consider myself a long time friend and admirer of the United States and her way of life. Increasingly however, I am concerned at the aggressive unilateral policies that the U.S. are pursing, particularly when it comes to Iraq. The profs seem to have it right as they objectively reflect on how American behaviour is interpreted by other independent nations. It seems increasingly imperialistic rather than democratic.

The U.S. as a champion of democracy within nation states has my greatest admiration and affection. Yet currently it appears to disparage these same democratic values when it comes to the interaction of the global community.


Please America, slow down and heed the arguments of other nations as expressed within the U.N and security council. To champion democracy, you must respect it within the community of nations. If the world is unwilling to wage war against Iraq until it clearly violates another nation's sovereignty, perhaps the clearest demonstration of your democratic values is to wait until the majority of the U.N. security council supports you in your quest.

With warm regards,

Matt Pack
Sydney, Australia

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