In my classes these days I'm increasingly presented with an argument in support of all US aggression that seems compelling for many . It goes like this.
"All nations want protection and all are inherently for power. If they can become an empire they will. IF THE US DOES NOT STEP INTO THE VOID OF EMPIRE, SOMEONE ELSE -LIKE CHINA OR RUSSIA WILL - THEREFORE WE MUST SUPPORT US EMPIRE BECAUSE THE ALTERNATIVE IS WORSE." It doesn't help that all top Presidential candidates support continued empire. Here's Paul Craig C Roberts on Obama today http://www.counterpunch.org/roberts01112008.html This is, of course, an argument made during the Cold War . .of course it subverts and marginalizes any fight for democracy and social justice, or democratic socialism (which I argue, can help prevent a world of empire). Those who take this path are accused of weakening" the homeland" and strengthening the potential enemies. For you teachers out there, how do you pedagogically deal with this in the classroom? Any thoughts? Best, Brian McKenna ************** Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape. http://body.aol.com/fitness/winter-exercise?NCID=aolcmp00300000002489
