Spiritual/Political/Philosophical Blog on the Nature of Truth and Falsehood and Heaven
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| Sunny Days in Heaven Spiritual/Political/Philosophical Blog on the Nature of Truth and Falsehood and Heaven |
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Saturday, November 01, 2003 People like this soldier here are beginning to find out how crazy middle eastern culture is. There was an article a few days ago (which I can't find to hand) that talked about Arab addiction to irregular warfare relating it to their honor/shame/victim culture. The upshot is that of tribal people with little sense of personal responsibility (everything else is a conspiracy against one no matter how absurd), plus an enormous sense of honor (revenge is essential to restoring self-esteem). Arabs lie incessantly since it would dishonor them to admit failure, a mistake, a lack of skill or knowledge, or inability to deliver on a contract. They can be very gracious hosts, but lying and deception is an entire way of life. In my less gracious moments, I wonder if such a culture can possible persuade itself to change; and if maybe the Romans and others had the cruel, but better idea of simply annihilating obnoxious peoples rather than having to endure further annoyance (and assaults). Frontline/World had a feature on trying to rebuild a bombed village in Afghanistan and the endemic problems with the culture, a warlord, and lawlessness. The video of the show isn't up yet at the site (will be up Monday), but there are articles to read. posted by Mark Butterworth | 7:05 PM | |
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