War of the Words
Wanted: a few good men “public relations products.” The Pentagon seeks go getter news with attitude for success. Or something.
The proposal, which calls in part for extensive monitoring and analysis of Iraqi, Middle Eastern and American media, is designed to help the coalition forces understand “the communications environment.” Its goal is to “develop communication strategies and tactics, identify opportunities, and execute events . . . to effectively communicate Iraqi government and coalition’s goals, and build support among our strategic audiences in achieving these goals,”
If we have the will, we can win the war of words in Iraq. If we walk away from that battle, our words will follow us back here. The words are either with us or against us. The words are on the march.
Plus what’s in a word? A word like Islamofascist? RJ Eskow: “The Richard Cohens and Donald Rumsfelds of this world use the “Islamic fascism” label whenever it suits them politically. No more, no less. Tragically, it blinds the public to the complexities of the Muslim world. It limits our ability to see the ways in which some parts of this world can help us, while others can be eliminated as a threat without the sacrifice of their citizens’ lives or ours. it evens limits our ability to wage war.”
Da plain, da plain truth? On Fantasy Island Fascists: “The term Islamo-fascism isn’t new, Pollitt writes, nor is it accurate. But it sure is useful.”
Did somebody say fascism? “Fascism, in fact, seems to be the new buzz word for Republicans in an election season dominated by an unpopular war in Iraq.“
