[lbo-talk] Tim Robbins speech at National Press Club--quite good

[Dennis Perrin]

> I think there are contradictions in appealing to a more honourable radical
> tradition of US patriotism in cutting into that censorship. But perhaps
> that is the best way he could confront his critics, instead of letting
them
> corner him.
>
> But citizens of the USA I do not know the conditions in your country.
>
> Chris Burford
> London

I think Robbins is on to something here, and I believe he's sincere. The
Constitution and Bill of Rights are two radical documents that personified
the 18th century Enlightenment, and they remain radical today. In
discussions, radio interviews or debates, I never tire in bringing this up,
and it really puts the flag-grovelers on the defensive, many of whom are
ignorant of early American history and the ideals that animated the likes of
Paine, for instance. But you do have to mix in contemporary geopolitical
analysis, else you sound like some History Channel fart droning on to Sander
Vanoucer (is he still alive?).

DP