Dealing with Untrustworthy Dictators

Given the election-related turmoil in the Islamic Republic of Iran, can democracy ever take hold in a theocracy? How should the Obama administration respond to the disputed election and to Iran's ruling clerics?

I think the question we need to confront is not whether theocracy and democracy go together, but whether theocracy and lies go together? Those in control over Iran have demonstrated that their brand of theocracy is more about subduing women and what they wear and how they look and not so much about honesty, decency, understanding and humility.

What has happened in Iran lately, more so since the election of President Ahmadinejad, is rule by fear, hate-mongering, anger and violence, everything that is contrary to decency and civilization. Why should it surprise anyone that he resorted to manipulating the elections and making a mockery of democracy?

If Ahmedinajad retains power, can he be trusted to abide by any agreements we might make with him on nuclear arms? One who has no respect for the verdict of the people is unlikely to have respect for any agreements. This is not to say that President Obama is wrong in attempting to dialogue with the Iranian Government.

I think our President is on the right path. Being unwilling to talk with people we consider "evil" is to write off a whole nation because of the stupidity of one man. We need to show our moral support to the vast number of Iranians who want to throw off the yoke of dictatorship. To become as uncouth as a dictator when dealing with a dictator does not make us look any better nor does it lead to any positive results.

By Arun Gandhi  |  June 17, 2009; 12:50 PM ET Save & Share:                 
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Posted by: coloradodog | June 21, 2009 9:22 PM
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