Re: [rehfans] Re: JAPAN was Howard and racism

[Mark Hall]

Alan D Glick wrote:  Some, but nowhere near the extent of those practiced regularly by the Germans and Japanese, and without the instigation and/or approval of those with ultimate responsibility.  I know you didn't want to get involved in a tit-for-tat disagreement but your statement demanded it. Alan Glick Well Alan, John Dower would probably disagree with you, and thinks the question is open on how much approval there was from those with "ultimate responsibility."  First, what is your rank level for "ultimate responsibility"?  Sergeant, or higher?  Or are we talking admirals and generals. As Dower points out, LIFE magazine ran a feature in 1943 with several Marines who were more than happy to provide photo opportunities and interviews on the whole head hunting issue.  To the best of Dower's knowledge and research, no disciplinary action was issued, and the US military made no comment what-so-ever on the matter.  LIFE carried no letters to the editor on the matter either.  So, if you got some evidence and proof for your statement on insitgation and approval, let's bring it up and get it out in the open.  Hell'uva lot of scholars would like to know, 'cause Dower has raised a very thorny issue on this one. Dower's scholarship is solid and he has been raising some very troubling questions for both the Americans and the Japanese. So for people to say he is either pro-American or pro-Japanese is very hard; he has academic and political enemies in both countries. I would agree with you it was not to the level of the Japanese and Germans, but when you dehumanize your enemy on moral and ethical grounds, you get on the slippery slope of making sure one's own house is clean. MEH