[KantianBurke]

Friedman's wrong. The rest of the world is envious of us and can't come to grips about how terriblly run their own countries are. They mistake our "influencing their affairs" for their own incompetence.

[beckett]

Friedman's wrong. The rest of the world is envious of us and can't come to grips about how terriblly run their own countries are. They mistake our "influencing their affairs" for their own incompetence.

I think Friedman managed to say the same thing without choosing language that could be construed as polarizing. I really don't think he would disagree with you too strongly.

[okie01]

"Friedman's wrong. The rest of the world is envious of us and can't come to grips about how terriblly run their own countries are. They mistake our "influencing their affairs" for their own incompetence."

Actually, Friedman does have a point -- though it escapes him.

Imagine the U.S. flexing its muscles with a bellicose version of Slick Willie as President. In many respects, the Kosovo "adventure" was the event that put the world on notice.

India registered deep concern at the time, their Foreign Minister remarking that "no one is safe". This particular aspect of the intervention escaped media attention, of course.

Recall that we, as a nation, have demonstrated ourselves capable of electing dangerous, irresponsible men. Plus, a craven Congress has failed to exhibit the will to bring him to account.

When a hegemon, even a democratic one, elects a sociopath, the entire world is in danger.

It's up to us to see that it never happens again...