Do you think the Iranian President should speak at Columbia?
I dont see why he shouldn’t. I am very interested to hear what he has to say and what our media says about him. U heard this morning that the Arab world would use his speech as propaganda against us, I think it’ll be the other way around.
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I think he should be allowed to speak. Just because we don’t agree with someone doesn’t mean we should not let them voice their opinion. That’s one of the founding principles of our country. Perpetuating a culture of fear and isolationism is only going to increase the amount of global conflict.
I don’t think allowing people to voice opinions in the private or public sector has any bearing on founding principles of our country. Government regulation of such speech is a different, that’s specifically addressed: “Congress shall make no law…” Columbia University is a private institution of high regard and reputation. Who is allowed – inivited – to speak there falls beyond the issue of simply “voicing opinion.” He’s not talking in a class or seminar, where issues of free speech and difference of opinion are of utmost concern. He is a head of state addressing an august body of officials. His speech is part of international geo-political considerations. Why the President of Columbia invited him to speak is beyond my comprehension. There are plenty of opportunities for the Iranian Pres to speak and for you to hear what he has to say. Here, the question is whether Columbia University is, considering all the political ramifications, an appropriate place. Personally, I think not. Chris6137, do you think Ground Zero would be an OK place for the president of Iran to visit and give a speech so you can hear his opinions?
Not an edifying afternoon. AP reported that it was a “tense” experience. “Ahmadinejad”: http://apnews.excite.com/article/20070924/D8RS21D80.html
Dubya made really these eloquent and memorable remarks:
“President Bush said Ahmadinejad’s appearance at Columbia ‘speaks volumes about really the greatness of America.’
He told Fox News Channel that if Bollinger considers Ahmadinejad’s visit an educational experience for Columbia students, ‘I guess it’s OK with me.’
Other American officials were less sympathetic.”
Aside: why isn’t the limited Textile for link working?
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