Rhetoric of Democracy vs. Reality of Oil

[RedEarth]

Published on Thursday, February 17, 2005 by Working for Change
Rhetoric of Democracy vs. Reality of Oil
Would Bush be so keen on exporting democracy, were it not for the crude we're importing?

by Byron Williams

"All who live in tyranny and hopelessness can know the United States will not ignore your oppression or excuse your oppressors. When you stand for your liberty, we will stand with you."
-- President George W. Bush, Jan. 20, 2005

It is hard to argue with the president's words, in theory. His praxis, however, has left something to be desired. At least where Iraq is concerned, the administration was quick to jump the gun on the "When you stand for your liberty, we will stand with you" part, as it opted for a pre-emptive form of democracy.

It now appears that perhaps the Bush administration may seek to implement its strip-mall version of democracy in Iran. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice suggested that attacking Iran was "not on the agenda at this point."

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China and India have two of the fastest-growing economies in the world. That translates into two countries with more than 2 billion people collectively buying a larger percentage of the finite resources on which we are so dependent.

The Energy Department estimates that 15 years from now, the world will need 40 million more barrels each day over existing levels. But a number of oil analysts believe that the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries is already maximizing its production. Thus, the demand for oil could exceed the available supply.

If China signs its proposed $70 billion gas and oil deal with Iran, it is unlikely that the United States would be successful in its attempt to isolate Iran within the United Nations because of concerns over its apparent nuclear weapons.

http://www.commondreams.org/views05/0217-33.htm