The New York Times* today has an article on threats to the judiciary. No kidding. And why shouldn't criminals threaten court officials? It's the same behavior we see today in U.S. foreign policy.
The criminals are saying "I'm right and you're wrong. Do what I say or someone will kill you." How is that different from "You're either with us or against us" as President Bush put U.S. policy on terrorism? If it's good enough for the country, why isn't it good enough for everyone else?
I'm sure Mr. Bush would say it's because he's the elected leader of the most powerful country in the world, but that does not excuse uncivilized behavior. We are heading toward -- if we haven't already arrived at -- a might makes right, your wrong because I'm right, society. Tolerance and working together are hanging by a thread, because we and our leaders are embracing an ethic of no compromise and no retreat.
If this continues, we will all either be belligerent bullies imposing our will on others, or spineless slaves doing the bullys' will.
Compromise is an American value I'd like to see more of inside and outside of government.
*I do read papers other than the Times.
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