Dr. Ali Ettefagh serves as a director of Highmore Global Corporation, an investment company in emerging markets of Eastern Europe, CIS, and the Middle East. He is the co-author of several books on trade conflict, resolution of international trade disputes, conflicts in letters of credit, trade-related banking transactions, sovereign debt, arbitration and dispute resolutions and publications specific to the oil and gas, communication, aviation and finance sectors. Dr. Ettefagh is a member of the executive committee and the board of directors of The Development Foundation, an advisor to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, and an advisor to a number of European companies. Dr. Ettefagh speaks Persian (Farsi), English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Arabic and Turkish.
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Ali Ettefagh
Tehran, Iran
Dr. Ali Ettefagh serves as a director of Highmore Global Corporation, an investment company in emerging markets of Eastern Europe, CIS, and the Middle East.
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A CRISE É DOS BANCOS, MAS A SOCIEDADE, POR CONIVENCIA DO ESTADO, SEMPRE PAGA O PATO QUE NÃO COMPROU E NAO COMEU.
A crise é realmente um elo da mesma corrente e lamentavelmente endossada pelos Bancos Centrais e pelas agencia de classificação de riscos e por todos aqueles que ganharam dinheiro desonestamente.
É totalmente injustificável, com tecnologia de ponta para as comunicações online, o mundo continuar sendo tranquilamente controlado pela nociva auto regulamentação dos cartéis.
Talvez na próxima reunião do BIS e do G-20, em São Paulo, em outubro e novembro, surja uma solução definitiva para o controle de ágios, monitoramento correto de comodities e iniciativas que de fato defendam os interesses da sociedade mundial. Parece que os chines já dispoem de um plano e outros países também.
Essa propalada crise não é de ESTADO, mas uma crise localizada no sistema financeiro cartelizado, que fabricou centenas de bilionários em curtissímo prazo e desonestamente. E hoje esses especuladores estão usando o ESTADO PARA GARANTIR A PRIVATIZAÇÃO DE SEUS LUCROS E A SOCIALIZAÇÃO DE PREJUIZOS. E O ESTADO , PARA GARANTIR A CONTINUIDADE DESSES CARTÉIS, MAIS UMA VEZ IRÁ PENALIZAR O POVO INDEFESO QUE NÃO RECEBEU, MAS VAI PERDER BENEFÍCIOS PARA A CONCENTRAÇÃO DE RIQUEZAS.
These spaces are provided for the posters to intellectually challenge the writer. Definitely, not to stray from the core of the subject on hands.
Be well and in here more often.
SEAN LESLIE
You must be smoking something. Big deal if Palin is popular in a state where the population is less than the city of Memphis in the real America?
It is about representing all of America, not uss the nuts. Being a heartbeat away from a 72 year old heart means the person must be educated, experienced, balanced, and taken seriously abroad. Take a poll even in UK, America's lap puppy, and you will come back with more reality. If Americans want some country music pop star, they will go to a concert or call Brittney Spears....but if they want a statesperson, they must open their eyes. At least Biden has been exposed to more reality in America and it is a presidential election, not an election of a vice president with an old guy coming along for the ride!
Your views are unfactual and deluded. Sarah Palin is bright, wise to life, bipartisan (80% approval in Alaska, endlessly curious, joyous, grateful, no politics of victimhood and resentment. She is the best of America! With a smile!
Obama is actually the one like Dubya Bush, because they are both spoiled, shallow fads, attempted to be put in power by the MSM, Ivy educated - but not in life and people. And insincere. Phoney.
Sarah Palin is authentic; Bush was not, but conceited and glib - just like Obama - he thinks he is smarter than others, won't listen etc.
As I say, your views have no experience, no facts, or evidence about Sarah Palin, hence - deluded. You know not her and you know not America - AT ALL! Go directly to JAIL! Do not pass go nor collect 500 dollars!
We the Republican Revolutionary Corp. of North America, believing in the Second Amendment of the Constitution and in exercise of our right to stay away from school and education hereby affirm that we are......
Swift Boating for Jesus....bring'em on!!
DC will now be Palin Country, McCain a figurehead president..........
Do you believe?
If you do believe in USAmerica then what would you do?
What would your God or prophet do?
WWJD?
Whatever he they she or you or me would do I believe we are actually doing it anyway.
Id et talking about it.
That's the way it started out in EasternEurope.
But now look at what's going on.
His Holiness George of America is not paying attention. And His Holiness John McCain of The Panama Canal Zone, he's not paying attention either.
Remember they all have theiranches out West or up North and they can all feel secure in that.
How about you and me?
And note this please.
It's been said many times here and other places that what you hear and see is not necessarily what I hear and see. However a Facist will not ordinarily tell you that you have a legal right to disagree with him.
Why?
That make's him not a Facist. Correct?
By definition yes.
So to say for instance as per The Washington Post or The NYTimes that China's buying into Africa because they have the ability and we didn't (in my own opinion because there's not enough for us there or maybe there are too many Black people there or not a big engouh market) or to say that Russia is seeking closer friendship with Cuba. Further in today's NYTimes China is investing 500millionUSdollars in Costa Rica.
Isn't Costa Rica, our neighbor to the South, the second oldest Presidential Republic on Earth?
Or are we still calling ourselves a Democracy?
When is your election for president in the US Mr Bush, eight years ago? And this year? And how about 2012AD?
Mine has always been on the First Tuesday after the First Monday in November. That is as long as the First Monday in October falls on a Monday.
True? I saw it in the US Constiution.
So add up your birthdays Mr Bush. And remember Mr President: you are the President. I'm not
Good comments.
If America appoints itself as a leader of the world, it must choose qualified people and not some woman that looks like a country music singer to have access to nuclear launch codes, big government budgets, etc. etc.
FARNAZ
What does your question have to do with the topic of this article, or the price of onions?
However, as an Iranian resident in USA, I want to answer your question to the writer.
Religious minorities in Iran are more or less in the same situation as in USA, that is to say the majority are not so tolerant of the minority (redneck for redneck, or educated for educated). But, unlike American attitudes, Iranians do not consider Jews or foreigners as enemies:
a) Iranian Jews are enjoying life where they please--in Iran or abroad-- as ews (and Asyrians and Christians and Zoroastrians) each have a guaranteed member of parliament and enshrined rights in the constitution, their own community schools and Jews have 6 synagougea in Tehran alone, for a small 30,000 community in all of Iran (pop. 72 million).
Tell me, where else does a very small group of population (= 0.00001% of the total) has a guaranteed 1/280 representation in a parliament and guaranteed specific line item in the government budget (2.6 million USD for current year, which is almost 1000 dollars per Jewish person in Iran)? Does your beloved Iraq, where your tax dollars are spent, have this? Saudi Arabia? Even the so-called "democratic" Turkey?
b) Bahais? Who, or what, are they? You mean the phoney sect early 20th century set up by the British as an instrument of agitation in the non-Arab Muslim country of Iran, with the HQ in Israel and less than 50'000 followers worldwide?
what do they want? What is their story and....who cares really?
Where else in the world are they present in their "religious grouping" form as a recognised social group/sect/religious ethnic minority, so as to let Iran be the 2nd in that ranking? The Bahai story is just a fabricated piece of bad publicity against Iran. Nothing more.
Palin's claim to have a natural gas pipeline to the lower 48 in hand is a wild stretch at best.There are in fact two options. The one she has supported happens to go through a foreign country. That country is called Canada. There are numerous unsettled aboriginal land claims along that pipeline route. American policy makers are also often pointing out that Canada has very lax security.
The other option would involve shipping gas through new pipe along an existing corridor to Valdez Alaska and then by liquified natural gas tanker to an American port. This would be an all-American route.
This option certainly seems more secure. One wonders if the American electorate is even aware of the differences??
Exactly who is this thinking dangerous to ? And if China invests, it takes a risk, if you think it hurts my feelings they get burned, your wrong.
They wanted to use free/cheap labor to graft as much wealth as they can from the USA, why should they get the benefits without the risk ?
But don't worry, we hear you loud and clear - in the civilized world (that's with 'z' not an 's')you feel 'all are one'. But all are not 'one'. Some are more 'one' than others. In fact, I see zero real meaningful tangible benefit to being interconnected. Anyone can make baubles and electronics. Anyone can grow or produce textiles.
On the other hand, the majority of the world only has one place to 'cash in', and that is here in the good ol' US of A. As they say, follow the money trail.
Sucks to not have been born here, doesn't it ? The 'arrogance' just infuritates that 'one world order' crowd doesn't it ? you know why, because it's true. Otherwise it would not bother the socialist so much.
Good observations. The political process in America of today lacks substance and it has turned to show business and theatre. That is not the right way to go about managing our own country.
LAUGHING AT THE DEMS
So, you are trying to say that all Americans are either fraud artists or othewise victims?
That is very stupid and very insulting to your own people. In fact it is a dangerous way of behaving in a civilised society and people like you should be locked up.
I’m a Jewish believer in Jesus. Most blogs and news services have posted the same one paragraph of the six-page transcript of David Brickner’s message, giving the false impression that he believes that a bulldozer attack by a deranged Palestinian is God’s judgment on the Jewish people. Please read or listen to the entire message for yourself at the Jews for Jesus website, www.jewsforjesus.org, so that you can hear Brickner’s remarks in context. Please also take a look at Mr. Brickner’s comments concerning his message at Wasilla Bible Church, as well as interviews by Christianity Today and MSNBC with Mr. Brickner about this issue, at that same website.
the lie you can't seem to get your hands around is that the 'america' you think is america is only a media invention of the last 40 years and the most worthless generation ever - the baby boomers. when mccain is elected, we can begin to undue the damage done by the transfer of american resources to the rest of the false populations and needy 3rd world countries. I know you love that idea. and yes, i love that china is holding enough debt to be wrecked from the USA, it's alot cheaper than bombing them. I am sure you agree.
america never traditionally was liberal. they were ultra conservative and isolationist.
your other major misconception is that somehow 200K germans wanting a president here is something that matters. it does not. who cares what president of the US the Germans or anyone else wants. Do you go next door to your neighbors and tell them who you want to run their household ?
in point of fact, your socialist thinking...to wit, that all are interconnected blah blah is pablum for the masses. the more other countries want a given official in the usa is all the more reason for the citizens of the USA to question why other countries want him so much.
so, while it's cute you think you have some say-so in American politics...you don't
ps. my passport,well worn as it is, still has a blue cover
Interesting observations. It is more of a circus and, as said above and reading comments below, a cold but not-so-civil internal war in USA.
Hey, LAUGHING AT THE DEMS
You think insulting writers is the right way to go, eh? And you think borrowing money from the Chinese to buy oil from Saudi Arabia is a real smart idea?? (given that Iran does not sell oil to USA, and does not take Dollars for its oil sales!). I bet you don't even know what is the color of an American passport cover!
While you are talking about pitbulls and lipstick, Iranians are making world class advances in stemcell research,....LOL!
Today is the 7th anniversary of 9-11, but your Republican lot have not managed to build two lousy buildings, seven years later or find OBL.....also the appearance of your beloved president Bush (and speech of Rumsfeld) at the Pentagon with his soldiers, and not with the civilian people in NYC, is a telling story of the sad and irrelevant kind. So, go ahead and elect McCain and Palin, expedite the total devaluation of America of yesterday.
You seem to forget that the enemies of WWII in Europe are now partners in a union....and they all really despise your type of arrogance. To wit: 200 thousand Germans greeted Obama in Berlin, in search of change. Now, go back and nationalise some more "capitalist" symbols!!!!
who cares what some erudite cave dwellers thinks. This is the silliest peice yet for the post.
under what set of circumstances does it matter. please remind the author and the idiots in charge of the post that were it not for USA buying oil and the end of WWII the esteemed author would be riding a camel.
this is all about saying all cultures are equal, they are not. this article implies that some 3rd world country is in a position to evaluate, in a detached, intellectual manner that state of affairs in the USA. Again, they are not.
If they could excel and succeed they would. They cannot and like the libs all they have is whining and crying. The post, now long known for it's poor journalism stoops to new low levels.
it may kill the rest of the world to have to look in the mirror and say 'why are we not as rich and powerful as the us', but that is the way it is. your second place and further down for a reason. your culture sucks.
feel free to hurl the ignorant, brainwashed, redneck insults. it's really all you have. because the facts prove you wrong everyday. if your looking for perfect, wait for the afterlife. in the meantime, enjoy what you have.
I am sick of hearing about Obama. His same old speech is nothing new and a lot of people are tired of hearing about him. I want to know more about McCain and Palin. Geez get Obama off already!!
RUSHDIE
No need for foreigners to have ill will against America as it is doing a "fine job" of self-destruction.
The country that re-elected Bush, that is the same country that could not help its own people in New Orleans...a big mighty army and all the transport and money in the world not withstanding...., is working on making the same mistake! Some times, all you need to do is to let people defeat themselves on autopilot as there is no law against being stupid.
The article above is an eye opener--especially an observation from a far, foreign country. And Americans must listen to foreign observers as they can see them better than Americans can sift thru the advertising junk, hype and (as said above) brink of a cold civil war.
The main question is whether Americans are better off today than they were 8 years ago--economically, socially, world standing, scientifically, financially?
That is the question, and the voters must focus on and answer. Europeans also want to have a clear answer as they get the knock-on impact of American decisions.
You ought to be reminded that this discussion is about a question on American politics, not about the writer and his country.
Be it as it may, you should note that:
1. Ahmadinejad and Palin/Bush are cut out of the same "end is near" cloth....The Iranian president believes in his Mahdi (Saviour), ditto for Palin. The difference is that Ahmadinejad does not pretend and he speaks his mind clearly.
Iran has not appointed itself to be the "leader of the free world". Leaders proven to be irresponsible are more dangerous than a pitbull (with or without lipstick).
2. Iranian law, and Iranians generally, do not allow or believe that every one should have guns as the job of providing security and defence is a function of the state. Iranians are not as violent as Americans. There are only about 1000 homocides and murders in the less eoconomically advanced Iran of 70m, but more than 12000 in America of 300m where it is the land of technology, science and modern living.
3. Iranian law allows abortion up to 3 months 10 days. Iran is widely known to have advanced stemcell research, with the approval of religious leaders that are deemed "backward" in the West and are ridiculed. Creation and science are not found contridictory in Iran and in Iranian schools.
4. Since America pretends to be the de facto commander in chief and the economic peg of the British, the Dutch, Belgians, Danes and to a lesser extent France, Germany, Spain and Italy (and more recently the former Eastern Block Warsaw Pact lap poodles), then it must be a lot more careful about its policies, choice of political personalities, and selecting a candidate a heart beat away from a 72 year old heart.
After reading the many comments and the articles by the writers, I find it so hard to believe what is going on in this country anymore. People are so busy waving the flag so much, they don't even know what it stands for anymore. They don't care that the United States Constitution is the piece of paper that has held this country together, not a party or a person, but what I am seeing and hearing is that many people don't even care about the Constitution anymore. I am just amazed anymore, the dumbing down of America, people only have a 10 second interest span. Now, the ranting and raving from our religion fanatics, right-wing religious fanatics are no better than the Islamic religious fanatics, the religious zealots here spew hatred, bigotry, prejudice if people don't follow their ways, where are they any different then the Islamic religious zealots, there is none. The religious nutcakes here want war although when they reference Jesus (the Bible I have read he called for peace), so not sure what bible they use, but they certainly don't follow Christ's words, the do as I say not as I do syndrome. They use Christianity when it fits their purpose. I call what the religious nuts here is the cleansing of those who are different, no different then the Nazi's.
I write letters to newspapers, Congress, the idiot in the Whitehouse, but it seems no one cares about the real issues, I guess lipstick and a pitbull is much more newsworthy or Paris Hilton. John McCain said the issues were not important? If that is the case, then what is important? John McCain sold his soul and the U.S. out for the oil companies, special interests, and the religious nutcakes just to get elected. Someone called him honorable, I say he is a traitor to everything this country stood for since the revolutionary war. The religious nutcakes said they would back him if he picked a religious zealot who doesn't care about anyone but what they preach. We have found out the past 8 years of how much the republicans care about people, anytime a bill is presented to help people, they voted it down, but give a big corporation money or a big tax cut, they voted for it, doesn't this say how much people are valued. People in this country are not valued, we are a hindrance for the wealthy and big corporations, but we can do their dirty work, get low wages, fewer hours or they will ship jobs overseas, they throw out a bone once and a while to us, then we think they care. But don't we dare ask for something to rebuild this country or dare ask questions of what changes or some answers to the issues that are really facing this country. The infrastructures are falling apart in this country, but don't dare put any money into this country to fix the bridges, roads, and everything else that is falling apart, but we certainly have the money to give to Halliburton, Blackwater and the lies and deceptions used to attack Iraq. How many excuses did Bush use to attack a soverign nation, at least 10, again, the Iraqi people were just numbers to them, that oil meant more than people.
The Republican party has turned to be the do as I say not as I do party, they are hypocrites and will stop at nothing to gain control of this country. Karl Rove said Kaine, Gov of Virginia was not experienced enough to be vice-president, but Palin is? Hypocrisy. They all called Clinton a whiner and gender should not be an issue, but Palin isn't when she is hit with questions? Hypocrisy. They have raped this country dry and gave away our money to the oil and big corporations, the big tax cuts that were suppose to create jobs, the only thing is they didn't tell the people the jobs would be overseas. They have raped this country so dry that China is keeping us afloat, but that is okay as long as the wealthy and big corporations don't have to pay their fair share. What happens if China pulls their funding out from underneath us? McCain keeps the drums beating about attacking Iran, what about Russia and China's investments in Iran, do you really think they are going to sit back and allow Iran to be attacked? McCain doesn't want sit down and have discussions with other countries? Why not, other presidents have done so, even Bush himself, Reagan, Nixon, Eisenhower.
The Republican party only cares about money, greed, profits, oil and power and if it takes war to make all of this, then so be it and the hell with the consequences. It doesn't matter to them how many people die, remember we are just numbers to them, Bush and Cheney made this statement about Iraq, just numbers that is all we are and the Iraqi people, we know for certain they are just numbers, what or who cares, they are just Muslims, not people according to the Republcan followers, even children are just numbers to them, although don't care kill an unborn child, but once he/she is born, then killing is okay.
The dumbing down of America, how long have they been planning this, I know at least back to 1992 when the PNAC was formed to take over this country? Just let the sheep follow and never or dare ask questions or want to know the real issues.
One person here posted a comment of how many people care anymore, I wonder that also. I do care, but the majority of people anymore don't care about this country, they are too complacent and the fear factor that the Republicans use, just like Hitler. As Goerring said, repeat something long enough, people will begin to believe it. This country is becoming a fascist nation and if people don't start waking up, quit listening to the likes of Limbaugh, Savage, the religious nutcakes spewing their hatred and bigotry, who rake in millions and laughing all the way to the bank while the rest of us are losing our jobs, homes and everything else, quit following like sheep, it will be too late or maybe it is already too late as someone here stated the Wilkepedia already claimed McCain as elected president by a landslide.
Question I’d like to see discussed on the PostGlobal Iranian website (assuming the person who posted it is not immediately thrown in prison):
Does it worry you that you can’t own a gun, decide if you should or should not have an abortion, teach evolution in school and the Islamofacist regime running Iran has little experience in foreign policy? What does this say to people in other countries about how Iranian politics works?
McCain has said, by appointing Palin, 'Trust me on this one'. Well, I won't.
I see a prospective VP who has been insulated from intellectualism by the wilds of Alaska and a closed mind.
All I know about her can be summed up in a few sentences: she kills moose, she eats moose burgers, she was mayor of Wasilla, she is governor of Alaska, she has a family, she beliueves in creationism, she is not a pit bull because she wears lipstick.
I am appalled to see that she has avoided examination by the Press.
She is a bully without any worldliness, much like Bush.
The GOP asked America to vote for Bush as America's saviour. Their opinion gave support to the worst president ever. However, they are saying that, notwithstanding that their previous advice was poor, America should put Palin into High Office.
Republicans do not know who Palin is but they are backing her to the hilt much as I back my football team whether it does well or badly. Now is not the time for foolishness. Palin is not well known to the American populace and she has not exhibited any qualifications that will justify her appointment as VP.
The reflexes of America seem to be, a) if it's what I feel like doing, it must be God's will; b) if science or environmental well-being is against what I feel like doing, deny it; c) if the rest of the world is against it, I'm for it and d) if all else fails, bomb and/or invade.
Dr. Ettefagh has subtly but correctly warned us just how close the formulation is coming, when done in name of country, to fascism.
I am glad to see a representitive of a land that wants Americans dead is so open as to who he supports. Thank GOD for our right to choose, and not having to take who is thrown into the position.
We should not reject what Ali Ettefagh said off hand just because he is Iranian. This would be an ad hominem argument which is not logical. To correct some of what was said above. First Iran did have a reformer like Kemal Attaturk. He was Reza Khan (later Reza Shah Pahlavi) and ruled from 1921 to 1941. He followed many of Kemal Attaturk's reforms (although he was not as well educated as Attaturk)including expanding women's rights. He wanted to establish a republic but unfortunately some mullahs went to see him and persuaded him to become king instead. About Ahmadinejad he is nutty and bad for Iran, but he is no Hitler (he does not the same evil charisma and stature). Actually not long ago he said that Iran does not need to attack Israel because Israel is an artificial state and will fall apart (only PBS carried his quote). In two interviews that I heard he compared Israel to the Soviet Union which fell apart by itself. As far as his mystical views are concerned (similar to Sarah Palin's)most experts on Iran who have studied him closely don't think that he is ready to commit suicide since he is still in his 40's and as attacking Israel (which has some 150-200 nuclear bombs and the latest weapons) would result in Israel annihilating Iran. If he wanted to kill Jews you would think he would start with the Jews in his own country like Hitler. How come there are still 25,000 jews in Iran and they have a member of parliament? No, bombing Iran would not make Israel any safer any more than attacking Iraq has not made Israel safer. It will only increase its enemies.
Well, well, well..."the faux and confused politics of the Kemalist Turkey". I recommend the writer to research his subject before preaching. Without Kemalist revolution, Turkey would have been today's Iran; women forced to cover their heads, which makes them inferior to men, no religious (or any sort of) freedom, no culture or art as we know of, thyranny in every aspects of life. Who knows, this may well be the dream of the writer for Turkey, but not Turkish people's dream as I know of.
Who would actually compare herself to a pit bull anyway? And who would cheer for a pit bull? A couple days ago, there was a story about cops shooting a pit bull which was attacking an elderly lady, a fitting end for a pit bull out of control. This superb article comes from afar-I have long since given up on American media (ever since Scott and Lacey). If I want news, I turn to BBC. Question: If anyone critical of Palin is a sexist, does it not follow that anyone critical of Obama is a recist? As Jimmy Carville pit it: "It's the economy stupid!"
The slogan of “Country First” in a constitutional republic, where the founding document starts in the name of people, reminds me of the faux and confused politics of the Kemalist Turkey, or Pinochet’s Chile laced with a stealth desire to replicate the militarist mantra of the Generalisimo Franco of Spain.
Actually, to me the slogan "Country First" reminds me of what another popular president said: "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country"
That simple quote asks the American people to put country before self, or as McCain says "Country First."
The slogan of “Country First” in a constitutional republic, where the founding document starts in the name of people, reminds me of the faux and confused politics of the Kemalist Turkey, or Pinochet’s Chile laced with a stealth desire to replicate the militarist mantra of the Generalisimo Franco of Spain.
Actually, to me the slogan "Country First" reminds me of what another popular president said: "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country"
That simple quote asks the American people to put country before self, or as McCain says "Country First."
Only Democrats expect that political figures will have some influence over their lives and world events. Republicans refuse to acknowledge the importance of mere politicians. Top politics for them is filled with throw away people who will not interfere with the business people who really matter. To expect Democratic credentials for a Republican candidate is simply not recognizing the reality they inhabit. To elect Republicans to office is to respect their reality. To consistently deny them office is the only way to change their reality, over a long period of time.
I may make a post on this subject later, however, I am going to make a comment slightly off the subject. I was refreshing my memory of the Keating Five issue involving good old "honest" John McCain in the Wikipedia, the free Encyclopedia online and at the bottom of this article where it states See also, the following is added, "House and Senate career of John McCain, 1982-2000 John McCain was elected as the President of the United States of America in November of 2008 after a landslide victory over his opponent Barrack Obama."
Is there a Crystal ball forseeing the future of our Country? When did I get to vote?! How did McCain get to a landslide?
Before Ali Ettefagh should comment on our presidential politics, he should focus on his own president which is far more alarming given Iran's preoccupation with acquiring nuclear technology. Iranian President Mahmoud's Ahmadinejad's mystical pre-occupation with the coming of a Shiite Islamic messiah figure – the Mahdi – raises concerns that a nuclear-armed Islamic Republic could trigger the kind of global conflagration he envisions will set the stage for the end of the world.
Recently, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad made headlines by questioning whether the Holocaust actually happened, by suggesting Israel should be moved to Europe and by demanding the Jewish state be wiped off the face of the earth, his apocalyptic religious zealotry has received less attention.
In a videotaped meeting with Ayatollah Javadi-Amoli in Tehran, Ahmadinejad discussed candidly a strange, paranormal experience he had while addressing the United Nations in New York.
He recounts how he found himself bathed in light throughout the speech. But this wasn't the light directed at the podium by the U.N. and television cameras. It was, he said, a light from heaven.
Ahmadinejad is urging Iranians to prepare for the coming of the Mahdi by turning the country into a mighty and advanced Islamic society and by avoiding the corruption and excesses of the West.
All Iran is buzzing about the Mahdi, the 12th imam and the role Iran and Ahmadinejad are playing in his anticipated return. There's a new messiah hotline. There are news agencies especially devoted to the latest developments.
In all due respects, Dr. Ali Ettefagh shouldn't be throwing stones from a glass house.
Dr. Ettefagh seems confused about the shallowness of the American political process. He shouldn't be. He is far to correct in how something as serious as the selection of the commander in chief can be reduced to reality TV. We Americans have become programed by the Madison Avenue advertising eggheads to respond to the entertainment element in the programming and commercials that bombard us 24/7. Just look at what brings in the highest viewer ratings: "American Idol", "America Has Talent", "Deal Or No Deal", or any prime time sports event. Americans are addicted not only to foreign oil, but to mindless drivel passed off as good television.
A very clear and accurate view of current state of the country and the Christian front. I wish more of my fellow countrymen could see what this country has become in front of their own eyes. Thank you Dr. Ettefagh.
If only our fellow Americans could see our situation as you have so eloquently expressed it we might have a chance to start turning things around.
I am baffled, frightened and saddened by the mentality I see around me. I read your post and see only a few comments, knowing that a few clicks away hundreds of people are actively discussing video awards. What does this say about our future? Why aren't people shouting from the roof tops and why can they not see what is really before them?
Very interesting. I like the game show description.
The fact is that Palin is America's version of Ahmadinejad, except Ahmadinejad has/had more experience in the real world and he does not mix gas pipelines with God.
PostGlobal is an interactive conversation on global issues moderated by Newsweek International Editor Fareed Zakaria and David Ignatius of The Washington Post. It is produced jointly by Newsweek and washingtonpost.com, as is On Faith, a conversation on religion. Please send your comments, questions and suggestions for PostGlobal to Lauren Keane, its editor and producer.
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September 24, 2008 7:18 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 24, 2008 07:18
A CRISE É DOS BANCOS, MAS A SOCIEDADE, POR CONIVENCIA DO ESTADO, SEMPRE PAGA O PATO QUE NÃO COMPROU E NAO COMEU.
A crise é realmente um elo da mesma corrente e lamentavelmente endossada pelos Bancos Centrais e pelas agencia de classificação de riscos e por todos aqueles que ganharam dinheiro desonestamente.
É totalmente injustificável, com tecnologia de ponta para as comunicações online, o mundo continuar sendo tranquilamente controlado pela nociva auto regulamentação dos cartéis.
Talvez na próxima reunião do BIS e do G-20, em São Paulo, em outubro e novembro, surja uma solução definitiva para o controle de ágios, monitoramento correto de comodities e iniciativas que de fato defendam os interesses da sociedade mundial. Parece que os chines já dispoem de um plano e outros países também.
Essa propalada crise não é de ESTADO, mas uma crise localizada no sistema financeiro cartelizado, que fabricou centenas de bilionários em curtissímo prazo e desonestamente. E hoje esses especuladores estão usando o ESTADO PARA GARANTIR A PRIVATIZAÇÃO DE SEUS LUCROS E A SOCIALIZAÇÃO DE PREJUIZOS. E O ESTADO , PARA GARANTIR A CONTINUIDADE DESSES CARTÉIS, MAIS UMA VEZ IRÁ PENALIZAR O POVO INDEFESO QUE NÃO RECEBEU, MAS VAI PERDER BENEFÍCIOS PARA A CONCENTRAÇÃO DE RIQUEZAS.
September 16, 2008 9:01 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 16, 2008 21:01
Addressed to a Persian lady:
These spaces are provided for the posters to intellectually challenge the writer. Definitely, not to stray from the core of the subject on hands.
Be well and in here more often.
September 15, 2008 6:03 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 15, 2008 18:03
SEAN LESLIE
You must be smoking something. Big deal if Palin is popular in a state where the population is less than the city of Memphis in the real America?
It is about representing all of America, not uss the nuts. Being a heartbeat away from a 72 year old heart means the person must be educated, experienced, balanced, and taken seriously abroad. Take a poll even in UK, America's lap puppy, and you will come back with more reality. If Americans want some country music pop star, they will go to a concert or call Brittney Spears....but if they want a statesperson, they must open their eyes. At least Biden has been exposed to more reality in America and it is a presidential election, not an election of a vice president with an old guy coming along for the ride!
September 14, 2008 5:14 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 14, 2008 05:14
Your views are unfactual and deluded. Sarah Palin is bright, wise to life, bipartisan (80% approval in Alaska, endlessly curious, joyous, grateful, no politics of victimhood and resentment. She is the best of America! With a smile!
Obama is actually the one like Dubya Bush, because they are both spoiled, shallow fads, attempted to be put in power by the MSM, Ivy educated - but not in life and people. And insincere. Phoney.
Sarah Palin is authentic; Bush was not, but conceited and glib - just like Obama - he thinks he is smarter than others, won't listen etc.
As I say, your views have no experience, no facts, or evidence about Sarah Palin, hence - deluded. You know not her and you know not America - AT ALL! Go directly to JAIL! Do not pass go nor collect 500 dollars!
September 13, 2008 7:17 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 13, 2008 19:17
We the Republican Revolutionary Corp. of North America, believing in the Second Amendment of the Constitution and in exercise of our right to stay away from school and education hereby affirm that we are......
Swift Boating for Jesus....bring'em on!!
DC will now be Palin Country, McCain a figurehead president..........
September 13, 2008 12:19 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 13, 2008 12:19
Do you believe?
If you do believe in USAmerica then what would you do?
What would your God or prophet do?
WWJD?
Whatever he they she or you or me would do I believe we are actually doing it anyway.
Id et talking about it.
That's the way it started out in EasternEurope.
But now look at what's going on.
His Holiness George of America is not paying attention. And His Holiness John McCain of The Panama Canal Zone, he's not paying attention either.
Remember they all have theiranches out West or up North and they can all feel secure in that.
How about you and me?
And note this please.
It's been said many times here and other places that what you hear and see is not necessarily what I hear and see. However a Facist will not ordinarily tell you that you have a legal right to disagree with him.
Why?
That make's him not a Facist. Correct?
By definition yes.
So to say for instance as per The Washington Post or The NYTimes that China's buying into Africa because they have the ability and we didn't (in my own opinion because there's not enough for us there or maybe there are too many Black people there or not a big engouh market) or to say that Russia is seeking closer friendship with Cuba. Further in today's NYTimes China is investing 500millionUSdollars in Costa Rica.
Isn't Costa Rica, our neighbor to the South, the second oldest Presidential Republic on Earth?
Or are we still calling ourselves a Democracy?
When is your election for president in the US Mr Bush, eight years ago? And this year? And how about 2012AD?
Mine has always been on the First Tuesday after the First Monday in November. That is as long as the First Monday in October falls on a Monday.
True? I saw it in the US Constiution.
So add up your birthdays Mr Bush. And remember Mr President: you are the President. I'm not
Do you vote?
Or are you e to v?
Regards
dePaul Consiglio
September 13, 2008 10:54 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 13, 2008 10:54
Good comments.
If America appoints itself as a leader of the world, it must choose qualified people and not some woman that looks like a country music singer to have access to nuclear launch codes, big government budgets, etc. etc.
FARNAZ
What does your question have to do with the topic of this article, or the price of onions?
However, as an Iranian resident in USA, I want to answer your question to the writer.
Religious minorities in Iran are more or less in the same situation as in USA, that is to say the majority are not so tolerant of the minority (redneck for redneck, or educated for educated). But, unlike American attitudes, Iranians do not consider Jews or foreigners as enemies:
a) Iranian Jews are enjoying life where they please--in Iran or abroad-- as ews (and Asyrians and Christians and Zoroastrians) each have a guaranteed member of parliament and enshrined rights in the constitution, their own community schools and Jews have 6 synagougea in Tehran alone, for a small 30,000 community in all of Iran (pop. 72 million).
Tell me, where else does a very small group of population (= 0.00001% of the total) has a guaranteed 1/280 representation in a parliament and guaranteed specific line item in the government budget (2.6 million USD for current year, which is almost 1000 dollars per Jewish person in Iran)? Does your beloved Iraq, where your tax dollars are spent, have this? Saudi Arabia? Even the so-called "democratic" Turkey?
b) Bahais? Who, or what, are they? You mean the phoney sect early 20th century set up by the British as an instrument of agitation in the non-Arab Muslim country of Iran, with the HQ in Israel and less than 50'000 followers worldwide?
what do they want? What is their story and....who cares really?
Where else in the world are they present in their "religious grouping" form as a recognised social group/sect/religious ethnic minority, so as to let Iran be the 2nd in that ranking? The Bahai story is just a fabricated piece of bad publicity against Iran. Nothing more.
Stuck for an answer, aren't you?
September 13, 2008 6:22 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 13, 2008 06:22
Well, well, well. Look who's here. Tell us how the Bahai are doing Dr., and while your at it, about the Persian Jews.
Oh yes, good to see you here.
September 13, 2008 12:44 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 13, 2008 00:44
Is Sarah Palin the first VP candidate to possibly be indicted? I honestly cannot think of another candidate this has happened to.
History being made.
September 12, 2008 4:30 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 12, 2008 16:30
Palin wanted to ban books! Next comes the North Korean style of compelling you to prove that you are innocent!!!!
Scary stuff....
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080912/ap_on_el_pr/palin_librarian
September 12, 2008 7:58 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 12, 2008 07:58
Palin's claim to have a natural gas pipeline to the lower 48 in hand is a wild stretch at best.There are in fact two options. The one she has supported happens to go through a foreign country. That country is called Canada. There are numerous unsettled aboriginal land claims along that pipeline route. American policy makers are also often pointing out that Canada has very lax security.
The other option would involve shipping gas through new pipe along an existing corridor to Valdez Alaska and then by liquified natural gas tanker to an American port. This would be an all-American route.
This option certainly seems more secure. One wonders if the American electorate is even aware of the differences??
September 11, 2008 9:15 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 21:15
Big Don
Exactly who is this thinking dangerous to ? And if China invests, it takes a risk, if you think it hurts my feelings they get burned, your wrong.
They wanted to use free/cheap labor to graft as much wealth as they can from the USA, why should they get the benefits without the risk ?
But don't worry, we hear you loud and clear - in the civilized world (that's with 'z' not an 's')you feel 'all are one'. But all are not 'one'. Some are more 'one' than others. In fact, I see zero real meaningful tangible benefit to being interconnected. Anyone can make baubles and electronics. Anyone can grow or produce textiles.
On the other hand, the majority of the world only has one place to 'cash in', and that is here in the good ol' US of A. As they say, follow the money trail.
Sucks to not have been born here, doesn't it ? The 'arrogance' just infuritates that 'one world order' crowd doesn't it ? you know why, because it's true. Otherwise it would not bother the socialist so much.
September 11, 2008 12:14 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 12:14
Good observations. The political process in America of today lacks substance and it has turned to show business and theatre. That is not the right way to go about managing our own country.
LAUGHING AT THE DEMS
So, you are trying to say that all Americans are either fraud artists or othewise victims?
That is very stupid and very insulting to your own people. In fact it is a dangerous way of behaving in a civilised society and people like you should be locked up.
September 11, 2008 11:55 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 11:55
I’m a Jewish believer in Jesus. Most blogs and news services have posted the same one paragraph of the six-page transcript of David Brickner’s message, giving the false impression that he believes that a bulldozer attack by a deranged Palestinian is God’s judgment on the Jewish people. Please read or listen to the entire message for yourself at the Jews for Jesus website, www.jewsforjesus.org, so that you can hear Brickner’s remarks in context. Please also take a look at Mr. Brickner’s comments concerning his message at Wasilla Bible Church, as well as interviews by Christianity Today and MSNBC with Mr. Brickner about this issue, at that same website.
September 11, 2008 11:27 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 11:27
the lie you can't seem to get your hands around is that the 'america' you think is america is only a media invention of the last 40 years and the most worthless generation ever - the baby boomers. when mccain is elected, we can begin to undue the damage done by the transfer of american resources to the rest of the false populations and needy 3rd world countries. I know you love that idea. and yes, i love that china is holding enough debt to be wrecked from the USA, it's alot cheaper than bombing them. I am sure you agree.
america never traditionally was liberal. they were ultra conservative and isolationist.
your other major misconception is that somehow 200K germans wanting a president here is something that matters. it does not. who cares what president of the US the Germans or anyone else wants. Do you go next door to your neighbors and tell them who you want to run their household ?
in point of fact, your socialist thinking...to wit, that all are interconnected blah blah is pablum for the masses. the more other countries want a given official in the usa is all the more reason for the citizens of the USA to question why other countries want him so much.
so, while it's cute you think you have some say-so in American politics...you don't
ps. my passport,well worn as it is, still has a blue cover
September 11, 2008 10:23 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 10:23
Interesting observations. It is more of a circus and, as said above and reading comments below, a cold but not-so-civil internal war in USA.
Hey, LAUGHING AT THE DEMS
You think insulting writers is the right way to go, eh? And you think borrowing money from the Chinese to buy oil from Saudi Arabia is a real smart idea?? (given that Iran does not sell oil to USA, and does not take Dollars for its oil sales!). I bet you don't even know what is the color of an American passport cover!
While you are talking about pitbulls and lipstick, Iranians are making world class advances in stemcell research,....LOL!
Today is the 7th anniversary of 9-11, but your Republican lot have not managed to build two lousy buildings, seven years later or find OBL.....also the appearance of your beloved president Bush (and speech of Rumsfeld) at the Pentagon with his soldiers, and not with the civilian people in NYC, is a telling story of the sad and irrelevant kind. So, go ahead and elect McCain and Palin, expedite the total devaluation of America of yesterday.
You seem to forget that the enemies of WWII in Europe are now partners in a union....and they all really despise your type of arrogance. To wit: 200 thousand Germans greeted Obama in Berlin, in search of change. Now, go back and nationalise some more "capitalist" symbols!!!!
September 11, 2008 9:55 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 09:55
who cares what some erudite cave dwellers thinks. This is the silliest peice yet for the post.
under what set of circumstances does it matter. please remind the author and the idiots in charge of the post that were it not for USA buying oil and the end of WWII the esteemed author would be riding a camel.
this is all about saying all cultures are equal, they are not. this article implies that some 3rd world country is in a position to evaluate, in a detached, intellectual manner that state of affairs in the USA. Again, they are not.
If they could excel and succeed they would. They cannot and like the libs all they have is whining and crying. The post, now long known for it's poor journalism stoops to new low levels.
it may kill the rest of the world to have to look in the mirror and say 'why are we not as rich and powerful as the us', but that is the way it is. your second place and further down for a reason. your culture sucks.
feel free to hurl the ignorant, brainwashed, redneck insults. it's really all you have. because the facts prove you wrong everyday. if your looking for perfect, wait for the afterlife. in the meantime, enjoy what you have.
September 11, 2008 9:09 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 09:09
I am sick of hearing about Obama. His same old speech is nothing new and a lot of people are tired of hearing about him. I want to know more about McCain and Palin. Geez get Obama off already!!
September 11, 2008 9:01 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 09:01
Very keen observations and all true. Thank you.
RUSHDIE
No need for foreigners to have ill will against America as it is doing a "fine job" of self-destruction.
The country that re-elected Bush, that is the same country that could not help its own people in New Orleans...a big mighty army and all the transport and money in the world not withstanding...., is working on making the same mistake! Some times, all you need to do is to let people defeat themselves on autopilot as there is no law against being stupid.
September 11, 2008 8:20 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 08:20
The article above is an eye opener--especially an observation from a far, foreign country. And Americans must listen to foreign observers as they can see them better than Americans can sift thru the advertising junk, hype and (as said above) brink of a cold civil war.
The main question is whether Americans are better off today than they were 8 years ago--economically, socially, world standing, scientifically, financially?
That is the question, and the voters must focus on and answer. Europeans also want to have a clear answer as they get the knock-on impact of American decisions.
September 11, 2008 7:01 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 07:01
Surprising that Palin hasn't been scheduled to appear at that Old Boy's club on Mount Rushmore yet--
i dont think that her a_r_s_e does match to those faces..
September 11, 2008 6:11 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 06:11
Surprising that Palin hasn't been scheduled to appear at that Old Boy's club on Mount Rushmore yet
September 11, 2008 4:54 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 04:54
@ DBRUCE
@ SALLY
You ought to be reminded that this discussion is about a question on American politics, not about the writer and his country.
Be it as it may, you should note that:
1. Ahmadinejad and Palin/Bush are cut out of the same "end is near" cloth....The Iranian president believes in his Mahdi (Saviour), ditto for Palin. The difference is that Ahmadinejad does not pretend and he speaks his mind clearly.
Iran has not appointed itself to be the "leader of the free world". Leaders proven to be irresponsible are more dangerous than a pitbull (with or without lipstick).
2. Iranian law, and Iranians generally, do not allow or believe that every one should have guns as the job of providing security and defence is a function of the state. Iranians are not as violent as Americans. There are only about 1000 homocides and murders in the less eoconomically advanced Iran of 70m, but more than 12000 in America of 300m where it is the land of technology, science and modern living.
3. Iranian law allows abortion up to 3 months 10 days. Iran is widely known to have advanced stemcell research, with the approval of religious leaders that are deemed "backward" in the West and are ridiculed. Creation and science are not found contridictory in Iran and in Iranian schools.
4. Since America pretends to be the de facto commander in chief and the economic peg of the British, the Dutch, Belgians, Danes and to a lesser extent France, Germany, Spain and Italy (and more recently the former Eastern Block Warsaw Pact lap poodles), then it must be a lot more careful about its policies, choice of political personalities, and selecting a candidate a heart beat away from a 72 year old heart.
September 11, 2008 4:33 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 04:33
After reading the many comments and the articles by the writers, I find it so hard to believe what is going on in this country anymore. People are so busy waving the flag so much, they don't even know what it stands for anymore. They don't care that the United States Constitution is the piece of paper that has held this country together, not a party or a person, but what I am seeing and hearing is that many people don't even care about the Constitution anymore. I am just amazed anymore, the dumbing down of America, people only have a 10 second interest span. Now, the ranting and raving from our religion fanatics, right-wing religious fanatics are no better than the Islamic religious fanatics, the religious zealots here spew hatred, bigotry, prejudice if people don't follow their ways, where are they any different then the Islamic religious zealots, there is none. The religious nutcakes here want war although when they reference Jesus (the Bible I have read he called for peace), so not sure what bible they use, but they certainly don't follow Christ's words, the do as I say not as I do syndrome. They use Christianity when it fits their purpose. I call what the religious nuts here is the cleansing of those who are different, no different then the Nazi's.
I write letters to newspapers, Congress, the idiot in the Whitehouse, but it seems no one cares about the real issues, I guess lipstick and a pitbull is much more newsworthy or Paris Hilton. John McCain said the issues were not important? If that is the case, then what is important? John McCain sold his soul and the U.S. out for the oil companies, special interests, and the religious nutcakes just to get elected. Someone called him honorable, I say he is a traitor to everything this country stood for since the revolutionary war. The religious nutcakes said they would back him if he picked a religious zealot who doesn't care about anyone but what they preach. We have found out the past 8 years of how much the republicans care about people, anytime a bill is presented to help people, they voted it down, but give a big corporation money or a big tax cut, they voted for it, doesn't this say how much people are valued. People in this country are not valued, we are a hindrance for the wealthy and big corporations, but we can do their dirty work, get low wages, fewer hours or they will ship jobs overseas, they throw out a bone once and a while to us, then we think they care. But don't we dare ask for something to rebuild this country or dare ask questions of what changes or some answers to the issues that are really facing this country. The infrastructures are falling apart in this country, but don't dare put any money into this country to fix the bridges, roads, and everything else that is falling apart, but we certainly have the money to give to Halliburton, Blackwater and the lies and deceptions used to attack Iraq. How many excuses did Bush use to attack a soverign nation, at least 10, again, the Iraqi people were just numbers to them, that oil meant more than people.
The Republican party has turned to be the do as I say not as I do party, they are hypocrites and will stop at nothing to gain control of this country. Karl Rove said Kaine, Gov of Virginia was not experienced enough to be vice-president, but Palin is? Hypocrisy. They all called Clinton a whiner and gender should not be an issue, but Palin isn't when she is hit with questions? Hypocrisy. They have raped this country dry and gave away our money to the oil and big corporations, the big tax cuts that were suppose to create jobs, the only thing is they didn't tell the people the jobs would be overseas. They have raped this country so dry that China is keeping us afloat, but that is okay as long as the wealthy and big corporations don't have to pay their fair share. What happens if China pulls their funding out from underneath us? McCain keeps the drums beating about attacking Iran, what about Russia and China's investments in Iran, do you really think they are going to sit back and allow Iran to be attacked? McCain doesn't want sit down and have discussions with other countries? Why not, other presidents have done so, even Bush himself, Reagan, Nixon, Eisenhower.
The Republican party only cares about money, greed, profits, oil and power and if it takes war to make all of this, then so be it and the hell with the consequences. It doesn't matter to them how many people die, remember we are just numbers to them, Bush and Cheney made this statement about Iraq, just numbers that is all we are and the Iraqi people, we know for certain they are just numbers, what or who cares, they are just Muslims, not people according to the Republcan followers, even children are just numbers to them, although don't care kill an unborn child, but once he/she is born, then killing is okay.
The dumbing down of America, how long have they been planning this, I know at least back to 1992 when the PNAC was formed to take over this country? Just let the sheep follow and never or dare ask questions or want to know the real issues.
One person here posted a comment of how many people care anymore, I wonder that also. I do care, but the majority of people anymore don't care about this country, they are too complacent and the fear factor that the Republicans use, just like Hitler. As Goerring said, repeat something long enough, people will begin to believe it. This country is becoming a fascist nation and if people don't start waking up, quit listening to the likes of Limbaugh, Savage, the religious nutcakes spewing their hatred and bigotry, who rake in millions and laughing all the way to the bank while the rest of us are losing our jobs, homes and everything else, quit following like sheep, it will be too late or maybe it is already too late as someone here stated the Wilkepedia already claimed McCain as elected president by a landslide.
September 11, 2008 3:50 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 03:50
Question I’d like to see discussed on the PostGlobal Iranian website (assuming the person who posted it is not immediately thrown in prison):
Does it worry you that you can’t own a gun, decide if you should or should not have an abortion, teach evolution in school and the Islamofacist regime running Iran has little experience in foreign policy? What does this say to people in other countries about how Iranian politics works?
September 11, 2008 2:44 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 02:44
McCain has said, by appointing Palin, 'Trust me on this one'. Well, I won't.
I see a prospective VP who has been insulated from intellectualism by the wilds of Alaska and a closed mind.
All I know about her can be summed up in a few sentences: she kills moose, she eats moose burgers, she was mayor of Wasilla, she is governor of Alaska, she has a family, she beliueves in creationism, she is not a pit bull because she wears lipstick.
I am appalled to see that she has avoided examination by the Press.
She is a bully without any worldliness, much like Bush.
The GOP asked America to vote for Bush as America's saviour. Their opinion gave support to the worst president ever. However, they are saying that, notwithstanding that their previous advice was poor, America should put Palin into High Office.
Republicans do not know who Palin is but they are backing her to the hilt much as I back my football team whether it does well or badly. Now is not the time for foolishness. Palin is not well known to the American populace and she has not exhibited any qualifications that will justify her appointment as VP.
September 11, 2008 12:56 AM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 11, 2008 00:56
The reflexes of America seem to be, a) if it's what I feel like doing, it must be God's will; b) if science or environmental well-being is against what I feel like doing, deny it; c) if the rest of the world is against it, I'm for it and d) if all else fails, bomb and/or invade.
Dr. Ettefagh has subtly but correctly warned us just how close the formulation is coming, when done in name of country, to fascism.
September 10, 2008 10:58 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 22:58
I am glad to see a representitive of a land that wants Americans dead is so open as to who he supports. Thank GOD for our right to choose, and not having to take who is thrown into the position.
September 10, 2008 10:07 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 22:07
We should not reject what Ali Ettefagh said off hand just because he is Iranian. This would be an ad hominem argument which is not logical. To correct some of what was said above. First Iran did have a reformer like Kemal Attaturk. He was Reza Khan (later Reza Shah Pahlavi) and ruled from 1921 to 1941. He followed many of Kemal Attaturk's reforms (although he was not as well educated as Attaturk)including expanding women's rights. He wanted to establish a republic but unfortunately some mullahs went to see him and persuaded him to become king instead. About Ahmadinejad he is nutty and bad for Iran, but he is no Hitler (he does not the same evil charisma and stature). Actually not long ago he said that Iran does not need to attack Israel because Israel is an artificial state and will fall apart (only PBS carried his quote). In two interviews that I heard he compared Israel to the Soviet Union which fell apart by itself. As far as his mystical views are concerned (similar to Sarah Palin's)most experts on Iran who have studied him closely don't think that he is ready to commit suicide since he is still in his 40's and as attacking Israel (which has some 150-200 nuclear bombs and the latest weapons) would result in Israel annihilating Iran. If he wanted to kill Jews you would think he would start with the Jews in his own country like Hitler. How come there are still 25,000 jews in Iran and they have a member of parliament? No, bombing Iran would not make Israel any safer any more than attacking Iraq has not made Israel safer. It will only increase its enemies.
September 10, 2008 9:26 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 21:26
Well, well, well..."the faux and confused politics of the Kemalist Turkey". I recommend the writer to research his subject before preaching. Without Kemalist revolution, Turkey would have been today's Iran; women forced to cover their heads, which makes them inferior to men, no religious (or any sort of) freedom, no culture or art as we know of, thyranny in every aspects of life. Who knows, this may well be the dream of the writer for Turkey, but not Turkish people's dream as I know of.
September 10, 2008 7:07 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 19:07
Who would actually compare herself to a pit bull anyway? And who would cheer for a pit bull? A couple days ago, there was a story about cops shooting a pit bull which was attacking an elderly lady, a fitting end for a pit bull out of control. This superb article comes from afar-I have long since given up on American media (ever since Scott and Lacey). If I want news, I turn to BBC. Question: If anyone critical of Palin is a sexist, does it not follow that anyone critical of Obama is a recist? As Jimmy Carville pit it: "It's the economy stupid!"
September 10, 2008 5:57 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 17:57
Nationalism is dangerous, whoever practices it. It makes might more important than virtue, and identity supercedes moral positions.
Our politics are becoming as tribal as those of the countries we invade.
September 10, 2008 5:40 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 17:40
You Said:
The slogan of “Country First” in a constitutional republic, where the founding document starts in the name of people, reminds me of the faux and confused politics of the Kemalist Turkey, or Pinochet’s Chile laced with a stealth desire to replicate the militarist mantra of the Generalisimo Franco of Spain.
Actually, to me the slogan "Country First" reminds me of what another popular president said: "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country"
That simple quote asks the American people to put country before self, or as McCain says "Country First."
September 10, 2008 5:23 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 17:23
You Said:
The slogan of “Country First” in a constitutional republic, where the founding document starts in the name of people, reminds me of the faux and confused politics of the Kemalist Turkey, or Pinochet’s Chile laced with a stealth desire to replicate the militarist mantra of the Generalisimo Franco of Spain.
Actually, to me the slogan "Country First" reminds me of what another popular president said: "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country"
That simple quote asks the American people to put country before self, or as McCain says "Country First."
September 10, 2008 5:22 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 17:22
Only Democrats expect that political figures will have some influence over their lives and world events. Republicans refuse to acknowledge the importance of mere politicians. Top politics for them is filled with throw away people who will not interfere with the business people who really matter. To expect Democratic credentials for a Republican candidate is simply not recognizing the reality they inhabit. To elect Republicans to office is to respect their reality. To consistently deny them office is the only way to change their reality, over a long period of time.
September 10, 2008 4:36 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 16:36
I may make a post on this subject later, however, I am going to make a comment slightly off the subject. I was refreshing my memory of the Keating Five issue involving good old "honest" John McCain in the Wikipedia, the free Encyclopedia online and at the bottom of this article where it states See also, the following is added, "House and Senate career of John McCain, 1982-2000 John McCain was elected as the President of the United States of America in November of 2008 after a landslide victory over his opponent Barrack Obama."
Is there a Crystal ball forseeing the future of our Country? When did I get to vote?! How did McCain get to a landslide?
September 10, 2008 4:30 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 16:30
Before Ali Ettefagh should comment on our presidential politics, he should focus on his own president which is far more alarming given Iran's preoccupation with acquiring nuclear technology. Iranian President Mahmoud's Ahmadinejad's mystical pre-occupation with the coming of a Shiite Islamic messiah figure – the Mahdi – raises concerns that a nuclear-armed Islamic Republic could trigger the kind of global conflagration he envisions will set the stage for the end of the world.
Recently, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad made headlines by questioning whether the Holocaust actually happened, by suggesting Israel should be moved to Europe and by demanding the Jewish state be wiped off the face of the earth, his apocalyptic religious zealotry has received less attention.
In a videotaped meeting with Ayatollah Javadi-Amoli in Tehran, Ahmadinejad discussed candidly a strange, paranormal experience he had while addressing the United Nations in New York.
He recounts how he found himself bathed in light throughout the speech. But this wasn't the light directed at the podium by the U.N. and television cameras. It was, he said, a light from heaven.
Ahmadinejad is urging Iranians to prepare for the coming of the Mahdi by turning the country into a mighty and advanced Islamic society and by avoiding the corruption and excesses of the West.
All Iran is buzzing about the Mahdi, the 12th imam and the role Iran and Ahmadinejad are playing in his anticipated return. There's a new messiah hotline. There are news agencies especially devoted to the latest developments.
In all due respects, Dr. Ali Ettefagh shouldn't be throwing stones from a glass house.
September 10, 2008 4:20 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 16:20
Thank you. Your opinion is a refreshing and thoughtful commentary on the political state of this country.
September 10, 2008 3:13 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 15:13
Dr. Ettefagh seems confused about the shallowness of the American political process. He shouldn't be. He is far to correct in how something as serious as the selection of the commander in chief can be reduced to reality TV. We Americans have become programed by the Madison Avenue advertising eggheads to respond to the entertainment element in the programming and commercials that bombard us 24/7. Just look at what brings in the highest viewer ratings: "American Idol", "America Has Talent", "Deal Or No Deal", or any prime time sports event. Americans are addicted not only to foreign oil, but to mindless drivel passed off as good television.
September 10, 2008 3:05 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 15:05
A very clear and accurate view of current state of the country and the Christian front. I wish more of my fellow countrymen could see what this country has become in front of their own eyes. Thank you Dr. Ettefagh.
September 10, 2008 1:36 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 13:36
Dr. Ettefagh,
If only our fellow Americans could see our situation as you have so eloquently expressed it we might have a chance to start turning things around.
I am baffled, frightened and saddened by the mentality I see around me. I read your post and see only a few comments, knowing that a few clicks away hundreds of people are actively discussing video awards. What does this say about our future? Why aren't people shouting from the roof tops and why can they not see what is really before them?
September 10, 2008 1:20 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 13:20
Very interesting. I like the game show description.
The fact is that Palin is America's version of Ahmadinejad, except Ahmadinejad has/had more experience in the real world and he does not mix gas pipelines with God.
September 10, 2008 12:58 PM | Report Offensive Comments
Posted on September 10, 2008 12:58