Quote:And this rant by a slaveowning pederast proves what?
Pretty much all or at least most Greek males at the time were more homo than hetero. It was encouraged.
As far as slaveowning, slavery at the time was considered par for the course.
What's your point?
Quote:My first posting was unduly harsh, as extenuating circumstances I can only plead that I posted at am 7.00 local time.
On the other point I agree with you, a viable democracy can only exist if it is accepted by the population as legitimate. As regards Iraq, and democracy, at the moment I see no solution that will have a benificial outcome. The "best" thing would be perhaps be a Shi'ite dictator who restored order and got the infrastructure working. Then in a few generations they could start developing a democracy which functions in accordance with the cultural and religious norms. 2050 could turn out to be interesting<_<
First off, no dictator will ever willingly switch to a democracy and give up his power. Second, a democracy in a Muslim country (unless they are in Europe... maybe) is not possible at all, without very heavy influence from outside forces. Were it feasable to have a secular Muslim sect in power - maybe, but that is not possible, as Islam and secularity do not generally mix and definately not to a point where there would be nearly enough people of that nature.
I almost liked your "slaveowning pederast" argument better. At least it was amusing.
-A