John Lydon: "If the people of Iraq are being offered democracy, then they should understand it to its fullest extent, and that is the Sex Pistols..."
The crucial and beautiful freedom of speech gives us, the people, the ability to run and change our government. It also allows people with, shall we say, rebellious ideas the chance to speak their minds. Democracy not only welcomes, it requires the likes of GG Allin, Marilyn Manson, 2 Live Crew, and, yes, the Sex Pistols.
Going to war for the seemingly noble reason of "spreading democracy," in the simplest terms, means we are using our military to introduce GG Allin to the Middle East.
I know, I know, you already know this. Truth be told, I'm not sure why I felt compelled to write this today.
I love democracy. I love that I have the freedom to sit down and write this to an audience of a few or a few thousand. I love that you might be reading this thinking, "what a waste of time." That is democracy at its finest. I will defend the right of GG Allin and Rush Limbaugh alike because without them, this country wouldn't be this country.
But I find it repugnant that people, especially this administration, believe we can actually force these ideals on another culture. Democracy, by its nature, is a system that people must choose for themself. If it's any other way, it's not a democracy. Is there even a word for forced democracy?
The answer for the Middle East is not military action. It's not KFC or the great American Burger. It's not sanctions or boycotts. As corny and idealistic as it sounds, the answer is the same as it has always been: diplomacy and patience.
How's that for a conclusion?
In time, some governments will be overtrhrown and others will start anew. Yes, some countries will follow tyrannical monsters, but others will elect wise and productive leaders. For some, borders will be redrawn, for others, international relationships will strengthen.
No matter what the case, in none of it will America be able to claim victory in the Middle East. The people of the the Middle East will claim victory in the Middle East. When they're ready for their own version of the Sex Pistols, they will move willingly into democracy. And not until.