Insecurity

"... and since a tyrant's position is a little less insecure if the discontent can be directed at a foreigner,"

The above is a quote from "The Far Side of the World" by Patrick O'Brian. Dr. Maturin was talking about why their ship should avoid some areas, such as Argentina. It made me think about Argentina in the 80's and the whole Falkland's crisis.

The Junta in charge needed to distract the people from the dismal economic situation, not to mention lack of civil liberties, so they decided to invade the Falklands.

"who knows what imaginary crimes may not be fastened upon our people?"

The last part of the quote really made me think about South Korea and the Republican Party in the US.

In the case of Korea it reminded me of the way Mad Cow was used to push an anti-America agenda. The lengths Koreans, whether the Government or the people, go to excoriate foreigners.

In the case of the US, the way the Republican's use batshit to try and taint Obama.

Heh ... I used taint. :)

Great quote on many levels. :)