The paradox of democracy and civilized society

Submitted by Anon (United Kingdom), Nov 12, 2011 at 04:45

It is good to hear an acknowledgment of the fact that a non-trivial number of Iranians are pro-Western - it is an unmistakable and comforting reality for those familiar with the nuances of the region. In the end, Americans need to do the right thing which is to stand beside those who value Western and secular values. The best options are to aid in the removal of dictators and tyrants (as happened with Saddam and Qaddafi) and also to maintain harsh and crippling sanctions toward countries with hostility toward secular values. It is important that America emphasize the importance of free speech, freedom of religion and women's and minority rights first and foremost over democracy. Democracy is not an end in itself but the other attributes found in secular and civilized societies are.

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