Dutch to Ban Burqa from Public Schools and Universities

Too often in Europe, the pendulum of political sentiment swings wildly between fervent multiculturalism and democratic authoritarianism without stopping in the middle for a reasonable position.  It’s dizzying, and it’s no wonder that it inspires feelings of persecution and paranoia from the resident Muslim communities.
The burqa issue is complicated.  There are legitimate questions about whether most women […]

Bring America Down a Notch or Two: Vote for Obama

One of the best things about living in an international city like The Hague is meeting and socializing with people from all over the world.  I recently attended an informal gathering of such a group, and, unsuprisingly, the conversation turned to the upcoming US Presidential election.  One man, an Australian, casually remarked that if we […]

The Die Hard Demographic

Is it just me, or is Sarah Palin getting the greatest praise from Fred Thompson supporters?  I started thinking that she’s probably the closest thing to a female John McClain that’s ever graced American politics.  And of course, she’s running with his virtual namesake.
I feel that’s a connection worthy of pictoral celebration.

A Culture of Little Conviction

Capitulation is becoming an art in Western Europe.  Today brought news that the Dutch Van Abbemuseum has caved to the demands and threats of extremists who object to a planned march against the institution of Zwarte Pieten (”Black Petes”), the Dutch Santa’s helpers.
I’ve discussed Zwarte Piet previously, but as a recap, he is a black servant (slave?) of […]