Reply #65: I didn't just use body counts

[cali]

I specifically referred to suffering. And I hate to dash any illusions but the US has a very checkered history both domestically and externally. We've practiced plenty of ugly imperialism going back almost two centuries. We held on to slavery until the mid 19th century and implemented cruel Jim Crow laws. We've overthrown at least a dozen democratically elected governments. It was hardly some pure egalitarian paradise when bush came to office.

Yes, bushco has taken measures that are a severe blow to the lives of people both in this nation and others. I didn't deny that, or deny his potential to cause even greater harm.

As for the Kyoto agreement, I'm sure you're aware that even climatologists aren't of a uniform opinion re its efficacy. In fact, quite a few believe we've already passed the time when effective action can be taken. That's not to excuse bushco for not signing on, simply to point out that things aren't as simple as you make out. Nor was Clinton a real environmental champion.

But yes, in the end I think suffering and death mean something, and the death of 48 million people and the unspeakable suffering of millions upon millions more, are more devastating than what bush has done to date.