09-16-2001, 10:59 PM
I've followed the debates here, impressed by the level of discussion (with some exceptions, of course). Admittedly less informed on these matters than I should be, I've appreciated the mix of mainstream and well informed alternative (whatever that means) points of view. As strongly as many are arguing their points, it's clear enough that with such complex political and historical issues there are no easy answers. But who would have guessed a poker/gambling discussion site would attract such valuable debate? (I know some would question it's quality, but obviously you have to separate the wheat from the chaff.) It's given me the incentive to educate myself further.
Perhaps my strongest reaction to Tuesday's events has been the desire - somehow - to protect my children. The more I've thought about it, the more I feel I owe it to them to develop a better understanding of issues in the Middle East and related U.S. policy. (something I've been too lazy to do for most of my life) Only this will allow me to do what I can as an individual to try to make the world a little safer for them in the future.
Do others share a similar reaction? For me, this will mean a lot reading. My browser's bookmarks are already multiplying, with mainstream and alternative press sites, and sites specifically on Middle East issues added. (Searches can turn up a lot of leads. When you find a site which appears to provide useful coverage, check their links for more sites. You may not agree with the politics of some sites, but that does not mean they lack worthwhile information.) Of course for more depth I'll need to hit the books as well, including some I've seen mentioned here. It's a long term plan for which my other long term plans will just have to make room. I see little choice.
Perhaps my strongest reaction to Tuesday's events has been the desire - somehow - to protect my children. The more I've thought about it, the more I feel I owe it to them to develop a better understanding of issues in the Middle East and related U.S. policy. (something I've been too lazy to do for most of my life) Only this will allow me to do what I can as an individual to try to make the world a little safer for them in the future.
Do others share a similar reaction? For me, this will mean a lot reading. My browser's bookmarks are already multiplying, with mainstream and alternative press sites, and sites specifically on Middle East issues added. (Searches can turn up a lot of leads. When you find a site which appears to provide useful coverage, check their links for more sites. You may not agree with the politics of some sites, but that does not mean they lack worthwhile information.) Of course for more depth I'll need to hit the books as well, including some I've seen mentioned here. It's a long term plan for which my other long term plans will just have to make room. I see little choice.