From the Readers

Intentions to antagonize

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-04-16 08:34

Comment on "Pursuing tougher, meaningless sanctions" (April 12, China Daily)

I am in complete accord with the author's views. Why pursue meaningless sanctions? Why keep pursuing sanctions and beating the drum for other countries to use sanctions against Iran when we know that they're ineffective, yet still cause suffering and ill will?

Perhaps the answer lies in your perspective; sanctions may have meaning, after all. If your intent is to antagonize, intimidate and coerce other countries, then sanctions make all the sense in the world. If you want other countries to fear you so that it's easier to manipulate people and control them, then meaningless sanctions and senseless wars have a place in the larger scheme of things.

So, what can be done about it? Perhaps international relations are too important to allow only those who have power, wealth and authority to decide on their course. Perhaps caring individuals and groups need to communicate good will and friendship, especially with countries that the powerful ones wish to punish.

Ariel K, on China Daily website

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(China Daily 04/16/2010 page9)