AlterNet: Countering a Wave of Hate

Tim Robbins speaks to the National Press Club (in April). But all the same an amazing speech that is worth the read, worthy of note and attention for its substance. Robbins makes many good points, not least of which is that whilst the US celebrates its freedom of the press, its civil liberties and openness, it is in fact becoming less food at each of those things because of business and political pressure. People can be made to not speak their mind by refering to threats to their jobs or careers. Children of those who do speak out are stigmatised. What is this all about, is the debate not allowed in the US. Why can Americans not stomach the arguement, why must there be an absolute consensus on war or in fact anything conservative led. Can debate not flourish and the best argument win. It just might be Bush's who knows - but the opportunity isn't present now.