More on Pew poll on Global Attitudes

Looking at the data in the Pew poll on Global Attitudes (see previous posting for link) I noticed that negativity in the Middle East, toward America has been strong for a few years now. My earlier understanding was that opinion was more positive until very recently. That seems inaccurate based on the poll data.

My line of thinking has been that if the American People are perceived positively, in contrast to a negative opinion of the US government, then outreach by Americans could yield positive results in reducing negative feelings toward America, and reduce the likelihood of America, or other places such as Spain, from being a target. Unfortunately, the data seem to say that the American People haven't had a positive image for some time.

Either way, I still think that by restraining the use of US military and intelligence in ways that interfere in the affairs of other nations, we could do much in improving the sense that the US wants to be partners with other nations rather than their ruler. The current approach, as promoted by the Project for a New American Century (See links) is that the US should use its power as needed, without restraint because to do otherwise, puts the US in danger. As I have stated before, this approach guarantees endless war. That vision for the future of the world is simply unacceptable to me as a human being.

It is clear to me, and Iraq is making it more clear, that such aggressive deployment can only have the result of increasing tensions around the world, creating a greater likelihood of anger and resentment toward the US, and other nations. The Pew poll results bear this out.

My proposal, to restrain the aggressive use of military power, and fill the vacuum with Westerners traveling and making personal connections around the world, has a greater likelihood of improving relations, and security, than does the current approach.

Think about it, and send a message with your thoughts.

Universal