Submitted by Mark Harrison, Sep 26, 2007 20:10

Having watched Mr Bollinger insult a guest, I could not help thinking that this gesture sent a clear message back to the Middle East, as regards the behaviour of Westeners.

Whilst you may not like "the guest" and find him / his country repugnant, middle east custom dictates that you offer him sanctuary and a place to eat /sleep even though you may consider him an enemy.

i.e Attack the issues & policies.....not the person

This outburst by Bollinger sent out a message to the Middle East about Westerners----our lack of hospitaility,our lack of class / breeding /manners.....and has re-inforced the view that Westeners are "kufrs" ( infidels).

i.e Attack the policies.....not the person

This also re-inforces the view that the Iranian leaders have been telling their people about the US.

How can you engage an enemy by insulting him publicly.......although this was probably the intention so it raises the question of " Who's stooge are you Mr Bollinger?

I am sure that if George W was ever invited to speak in Tehran, he would not be introduced / spoken to like this, even though the US and Iran are idealogical enemies.

As the Bible says " As you sew , so shall you reap"

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