The objective of this diary is NOT to discuss the circumstances surrounding Nick Berg's death, but to examine the diverse commentary surrounding this event, which I believe to be a phenomena in and of itself.
THE DIMINISHING OF DISSENT
The objective of this diary is NOT to discuss the circumstances surrounding Nick Berg's death, but to examine the diverse commentary surrounding this event, which I believe to be a phenomena in and of itself.
Yesterday Meteor Blades ran an open thread on the `front page' with a focus on the questions surrounding the death of Nick Berg. A poll was posted with the thread, the results of which this a.m. indicate that only 14 % accept the CIA official story that Berg was beheaded on video by Al-Qaeda in general, and Abu Musab al-Zarqawi in particular.
Allow me to elaborate. Although 86% of those responding to the poll question the official story, there were a few posters who expressed outrage that the matter was being discussed on this board. Some were polite with their expression, while others were moved to express their disdain with expletives. Beyond that, the first word appearing in MB's opening sentence is "Conspiracy." The fact is that almost immediately after this video appeared, questions began to arise, to the point that more people now doubt the official story than believe it by far (and that I do not believe is limited to this board, but extends across this country and beyond our borders).
Yet, these thinking, skeptical people are labeled as `tin-foil hat' conspirators and treated with disdain by a very small minority. Skepticism is a major tenet in any discipline, as are theories. Debate was viewed as a healthy and necessary thing once upon a time. Our reactions to the events of 9/11 have brought many changes. Has the climate for free exchange in discourse changed in this country?
One of the revelations in the ongoing discussion of the execution of Nick Berg is the appearance of his father's name on a list of "Enemies of the State" on a right-wing website, apparently as a result of Michael Berg's anti-war position. I find the mere existence of such a list deeply disturbing. One group of citizens is pointing the finger at another, with frightening consequences. We know for a fact that Nick's father was visited by the FBI.
So, how do you feel about the fact that many of us can't accept first-hand anymore what our government tells us? Should the majority of us discontinue asking questions so that the minority will be more comfortable? Or we truly free to express our `dissenting' opinion? Do you find the label `conspirator' offensive? Are you comfortable with a "Enemies of the State" list?