July 9, 2008

We in the rich west sure find ways to absolve ourselves when it comes to African aid.

We've been doing it for years and so we're really good at it. We blame it on the local militias, dictators and other components beyond our control.

The truth of the matter is, we lack the resolve. There is no payoff, no return -- nothing. Saving humans is not enough, unless they're sitting on a ocean of oil and then, all of a sudden, it's a global crisis. We sure found a way to rescue Iraqis from Saddam and he had a much bigger army. We'll be rescuing Iranians next; watch for it.

I don't mean to be so cynical. Really, I don't. But I don't see a reason to not be.