----- Original Message -----
Sent: Sunday, January 06, 2002 2:56
AM
Subject: Re: [rehfans] Re: JAPAN was
Howard and racism
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,
ME: So much the worse for him or anyone who claims that
American atrocities were of the same extent as that of our enemies.
Where are the 6 million innocent men women and children civilians that
the big bad Americans tortured and killed due to their race. I find it
incredible that anyone would consider placing America's activities on the same
par with the Nazis or Japanese. There is no such thing as an idea so
stupid that it can't find supporters among the intelligencia.
...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.
ME: Ultimate responsibility clearly means the highest level of
civilian government.
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.
ME: Sorry it's not up to me to prove the negative. You show me
proof that the highest levels of the US government instigated and approved
these activities. If you can't provide it, you're engaging in wishful
thinking.
I would agree with you it was not to the level of the Japanese and
Germans
ME: Glad to hear this but it seems to contradict what you've
said earlier.
, 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.
ME: We may not be perfect, but that won't stop me from dehumanizing those
whose actions were inhuman. I'll hold America's record up against the
Nazis and Japanese any day.
Alan Glick
