I don't know what to think about the riots in France, but they're pretty mind-blowing.



First off, the way Chirac and Sarkozy are dealing with them is disgusting and shameful. Calling poor people rabble and scum will only anger more people and convince more poor youths that rioting is a good idea. One can almost picture Sarkozy turning to the Prime Minister with a flippant sneer saying, "Let them eat cake."



Now, I'm not saying that I condone violence. And I'm not saying that I think it's wise or that it will help accomplish anything.



All I'm saying is that if I were living in the ghettos outside of Paris, and I had been denied a decent education and therefore lacked skills like negotiation and reasoning, and if I were filled with a blinding rage against my government that defied all rhyme and reason ...

well, I might be pouring gasoline into bottles right now.

posted at 9:39 PM by Alison

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