What nation have I glorified?
Many of you have no true knowledge of the countries or cultures you speak of.
I am all for women's rights, however, I do not believe aggressive wars waged against others has been conducted for that reason. You talk about islam being so backward, ...and I won't disagree, but I will say at one time, Islam was the most progressive and civilized when it came to women's rights for the longest time... far longer than western cultures. The brand of Islamic Fundamentalism that we see today, is a direct result of colonial empires messing around in the internal politics of those nations. I'd hazard to guess that if the CIA hadn't committed terrorism in Iran, the world wouldn't be dealing with Ayatollahs, and Israel wouldn't be terrified at the prospect of a strong prosperous nuclear nation in it's midst.
When Islam was introduced by Muhammed (PBUH), the situation for women was very much improved.
But, and here's the main thing, they were NEVER made equals.
No matter how much you argue how Islam improved the situation for women back then, it is still not a religion that have room for equality between the sexes.
You see, the Quran is the words of Allah, and thus infallible. Islam can't really change over time.
Let me address your points regarding the Ayatollahs and Israel: I think you are quite right. Sucking countries like Iraq and Iran dry for resources will move them towards some way to fight for independence, meddling in their internal affairs likewise.
That I think you're right about this analysis, doesn't mean I for one second support or condone a regime in a country like Iran eg.
Of course USA needs to attack Iran. But not with military means. The attack needs to be a democracy effort, over a longer period. Trying to influence Iran becoming more secular.
Once again, as I stated before: Just because someone is against USA, doesn't give them some carte blanche. Everyone is equally accountable.
I think G W Bush is a really bad president, he excells in mediocrisy.
Ahmadinejad is much more intelligent. But due to his ideological beliefs, he makes Bush seems like the best president in the history in comparison.
Just look at what Ahmadinejad has accomplished:
*He promised less corruption. Did it happen? No.
*Iran's economy is going to shit, despite the oil.
*Foreign relations are fcuking up. Of course the Iranians will vote him out of office.
Bush is shit. But Ahmadinejad, he's a liability. Lets all hope that the good Iranian people elects a good president.
-Hedge