America the Model

As I’ve stated in various points around the blogosphere, the most important thing for America to do in the wake of the Abu Ghraib scandal is to practice “leadership by example” and make an example of those who were involved in the abuse. We must at all times bear in mind that not only will the world judge us by our handling of this matter, but – perhaps even more importantly – the new Iraqi nation will look to us for real-life instruction in how a free and democratic society purges itself of fascist tendencies. It is safe to say that the “six morons” of Abu Ghraib are the most hated people in America today. We must demonstrate that the due process of law and a fair, impartial trial are what is needed to bring them to justice. We must also learn hard lessons about the horrific conditions in our own prison system – and make changes fast.