One consequence of this war is that the superiority of American military technology and American military might will be apparent to all. Also apparent will be the United States government’s willingness to use that might even if it directly contravenes international law. And as the United States is not a signatory to the International Criminal Court, it is apparent that American politicians will enjoy relative immunity from the consequences of their immoral and injust actions. Furthermore, it will be clear that these politicians have the ability, through their willing friends in the media, to manufacture consent for their dubious enterprises.

It is likely, however, that a number of countries will either start or reenergize, albeit as clandestinely as possible, research programs into weapons of mass destruction. These nations, which possibly include Syria and Iran, already fear that they might be looking down the barrel of a gun. The war chickenhawks have already made clear their intentions of invading either (or both) Syria or Iran. Knowing that they will be unable to withstand the formidable barrage of cruise missiles, of cluster bombs, of superior tank tactics, governments around the world will consider whether or not it is worthwhile having an ace up one’s sleeve.

The first is the Bush budget. As we’ve mentioned before Bush has done a number of things to destroy the American economy. First and foremost is his fiscal recklessness, and without even factoring the cost of a war followed by occupation, the federal budget deficit is spiraling out of control. The war does nothing to convince foreign investors in the safety of the American market. Furthermore, the growing economic strains in the American economy, plus the growing isolation of the United States should prompt many investors to pull money out the US and put it into Europe (the Euro we note has been doing quite well).

The question that has not been answered is whether an empire can also be a democracy. Certainly during the reign of Queen Victoria, Britain herself was democratic. But her colonies lacked much in the way of democracy.

Bush has told us that he will turn Iraq into a democracy. Bush’s speeches are full of lies and so this particular proposition remains dubious. One thing we can be certain of though, for all their hatred of President Hussein — who specialized in ruling by fear — the Iraqi people do not love America. America is responsible for the economic sanctions of the past twelve years which have caused considerable hardship — many have died or suffered of malnutrition or lack of medicines. This in a country which was once a shining jewel in the Middle East. America is responsible for using depleted uranium, and is doing so again. And many Iraqis blame depleted uranium for the surge in cancer, that still persists, following the gulf war.

Liberal Arts Mafia via Robot Wisdom