What difference will a peacful protest of the Olympic Torch Relay in San Fran make? Other than to make those doing it feel better.
This notion of politicizing the Olympics is interesting. I have very mixed feelings about it. On the one hand, the whole point of the Olympics is supposed to be about transcending international political differences to focus on our common humanity. That is a noble idea and one worth pursuing. On the other hand, regimes inevitably use the Olympics to score political PR points on the international stage to enhance their legitimacy. That is the cynical reality of the Olympics. I suppose regimes that try to score PR points by hosting the Olympics should not be surprised when the detractors of those regimes use the Olympics to score points of their own. If you feel a regime ought to be shamed into behaving better, what better venue is there, and why should they get a pass and be allowed to promote their vile selves without being challenged? Still, I won't be protesting. I support the games for their potential to bring people and cultures together politics notwithstanding.
I'm with you Kurt but I can't figure out why, other than money of course, China was awarded the games. Remember, the average person in China will likely have no idea of what's afoot outside of China relative to any protests.
China's not Korea. i don't have a problem with China getting awarded the Olympics nor do i have a problem with the kettle protesting the pot. in the end China and the world will be better served for China opening its doors to the process.