From George Soros

[EC]

The New Bush Doctrine, by George Soros

President George W. Bush's second inaugural address set forth an ambitious vision of the role of the United States in advancing the cause of freedom worldwide, fueling worldwide speculation over the course of American foreign policy during the next four years. The ideas expressed in Bush's speech thus deserve serious consideration.
<snip>
To explain what is wrong with the new Bush doctrine, I have to invoke the concept of open society. That is the concept that has guided me in my efforts to foster freedom around the world. The work has been carried out through foundations operating on the ground and led by citizens who understand the limits of the possible in their countries. Occasionally, when a repressive regime expels our foundation – as has happened in Belarus and Uzbekistan – we operate from the outside.

Paradoxically, the most successful open society in the world, the US, does not properly understand the first principles of an open society; indeed, its current leadership actively disavows them. The concept of open society is based on the recognition that nobody possesses the ultimate truth, and that to claim otherwise leads to repression. In short, we may be wrong.

That is precisely the possibility that Bush refuses to acknowledge, and his denial appeals to a significant segment of the American public. An equally significant segment is appalled. This has left the US not only deeply divided, but also at loggerheads with much of the rest of the world, which considers our policies high-handed and arbitrary.

more http://www.georgesoros.com/article012605.html

[PROGRESSIVE1]

1. This quote expresses how I see America as a superpower:

"America will not impose our own style of government on the unwilling. Our goal instead is to help others find their own voice, attain their own freedom and make their own way."

[Village Idiot]

4. unfortunately, it is JUST NOT TRUE.

[EC]

7. It should be, but you're right - it's not

I really think it's not morally right for us to think that all the other countries in the world even want to be like us...there are many countries that see us as morally bankrupt (I would have to agree with them as far as the upper 1%'s behavior)...

[Democrats_win]

2. BA's secrecy speaks volumes and begs the questiong why?

What do they have to hide if they are so "right?"

[EC]

6. I know

I keep thinking the same thing...what is the real agenda...I really think, he and his want to rule the world...

[Nothing Without Hope]

3. Soros makes good points. Another, very scary set is made by Bill Moyers

in the article linked to in this thread:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x3053395
It's a MUST-READ for all of us. These guys are really not worried about Armageddon, it's part of their plans! The rest of the criminals just batten their pockets on the delusions of the religious nuts. It's serious, and it's shaping the policies of this administration.

[EC]

5. I know when I read that one I had mixed emotions

I was shaking from fear and anger, and I was relieved and happy that someone with a voice KNEW that to be true - then he retires...But he did say he was going to make it his job to get the word out and turn the Media around, so I hope he makes some headway...

[Nothing Without Hope]

8. Oh, yes. I hope he gets good opportunities to get the word out.

I wonder if Soros knows about that Moyers article? It's not the first time these points have been made, but when he speaks with his clarity and integrity and huge experience, it makes a special impact. We need that so very much.