I found this interesting commentary on Afghanistan-- a quick slant on the conflict and culture here. I don't spend too much time thinking about it, but if the TB are so bad, why are they so resilient here? You would think that bad dudes who use indiscriminate violence would be rejected by a population that is so torn by centuries of war. The TB kill far more Afghans than NATO does via collateral damage and we literally pour money into local economies. I guess it's a case of "better the devil you know"-- the same reason abused spouses remain with the abuser.
And then there's that whole "infidel" thing...
"The problems in Afghanistan for the most part, do not stem from within its borders, but from Pakistan. This is another bizarre example of the alliances that the United States forges. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are dangerous places with almost no equity for the treatment of women. Iran on the other hand is at peace and has a large number of women in professional roles, in college, and holding political office."
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2 comments:
so do you feel better shopping at this walmart than it's "parent" chain? You make a good point about the political/religious alliances we as a country make...one might think it would be the other way around as you suggest.
I've made this read part of my own daily ritual. It is heartening to hear the thoughts of an intellectual (dare I call you that?) person in the middle of such a crazy conflict. There are so many nuances to the war there, and to your own experiences, and you offer a rare insight into the many complexities of the situation. Sounds like you've already started doing some good. We're proud of all you're doing.
Oh, and it's now 90degrees with 90% humidity in Wisconsin...but no Smooth Girl magazines, I'm glad you were here in the spring.
Yes, crazy is a good word. The American guys and girls just want to get home safe, and the craziness is a moot point... I'm sure you could find "Smooth Girl" in Wisconsin. I didn't buy the one issue they had here-- saved it for a lonely soldier---!
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