Some of the most interesting talk about what may happen if we invade Iraq: In the long run, we're going to win the hearts and minds of greater Arabia not just with Barbie, but also with the other things we do better than they do, like have fun. Like actually date who we want. Like making up our own minds about things, like going where we want, when we want, with whoever we want, without fear of being beaten by roving groups of thought police carrying canes. Like reading what we want, and saying what we feel like. These are yearnings all individuals feel, but they're violently repressed in the Arab nations. If we give young Arabs the chance to try these things, they're going to like them and not want to go back.

In the long run thats probably true, but the invasion of Iraq will vastly affect what happens in the short term. I think its highly likely that we'll end up with an increase in hostility towards America from Middle East (and not just talk, but backed up with actions) should we invade Iraq. The only way I don't see that happening is if we roll over them in a week or two.

Despite all I've said here previously about Iraq, I remain unconvinced that we must invade to accomplish what we're after (safety). However, I do think that the invasion would speed up the timetable of Barbie scenerio described above; and I think the dangers associated with not invading outweigh the risk we take by going in.

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