Posted by
voice_of_reason on Wednesday, December 15, 2010 7:28:50 AM
In terms of principle, there is nothing wrong in what Julian Assange did. The "terrorism" that he is supposed to have committed is not different (in principle) from that of other journalists, who live for 'scoops'. That said, it is in leaking the details the Assange may have gone too far.
On this particular issue, one has to say that Michael Moore is being somewhat consistent. I say this with some reluctance, because I'm not a fan. In contrast to Moore, most people on the Left (of the American spectrum) were rooting for 'leakers' during the previous administration, but are tinged with righteous indignation at Assange's actions now.
Obviously, Michael Moore sees himself as a principled 'leaker' (although a better characterization would be that of a biased provocateur). Observe that most of his "speaking truth to power" examples are culled from the GWB-era. He cleverly throws in an LBJ-era reference, but makes it clear that it was the Pentagon that did the lying. By defending Assange (who purports to leak indiscriminately Left-and-Right) Moore promotes himself as a universal defender of 'Leaker's Rights'. Nicely done, Michael! Your fans eagerly look forward to your next shocking expose of the Cuban Health Care system, as it makes its way to American shores.
There is one inconsistency in Michael Moore's viewpoint that may be worth exploring. He exhorts his readers to never, ever believe the "official story" from the Govt - in matters related to diplomacy, war and peace. But, he is a advocate for a hugely expanded role of Govt into Health Care and other welfare programs. So, we should never, ever trust the Govt on matters of national defense, but we should trust them with trillions of taxpayer dollars?