Very well said Indisguise! Couldn't have put it any better myself. Anil wrote: "There is a better way of dealing with corrupt and inept leaders: VOTE THEM OUT!" Oh, how I wish things were really as simple as that! *Sigh* Anil ji, What you say sounds great in text-books and lecture classes - only if it were that straightforward and simple in real life too, we'd all be living in a Utopia. I understand and fully respect your unwavering commitment to democarcy. I believe it all stems from the fact that you have been living in the west - in a democracy - for the better part of your adult life. But have you ever thought, perhaps, living in America for the length of time that you have, maybe it has cut you off from the "real world" as it were? because, lets face it, the world is a big place comprising more than 200 countries/territories and full of diverse cultures and peoples - not just America, and maybe you have led a sheltered life in a cocoon if you know what I mean, or perhaps, it might have stunted your 'understanding of the real world' (for want of a better word), although you do read a lot of books (or so the impression I get). I can perfectly understand why a lot of people on here are unflinching, dare I say dogmatic vis-a-vis democracy. The majority of the posters on here live in America - in a democracy, and they are predisposed to American values and ideals, which is clouding thier judgements. What many of you are doing is looking at things from an American perspective. yes, 2+2=4 BUT 3+1=4 as well, and 6-2=4 as well. There are cultures where fat/overweight people are considered beautiful. Now, to you - an america-bred person - you couldn't fathom the idea of someone overweight being considered beautiful - to you it would seem insane and ludicrous. But there you go.. Indeed George Bush may not have ulterior motives in Iraq and that he genuinely believes that he is doing a huge favour to the humanity by invading Iraq and installing democarcy in that country. He may very well honestly believe that democracy is what people in Iraq are thirsting for and that democracy will make Iraqis' life better - but that perception is based on his own values and morals. Anilji, just because I refute you I hope you won't take it to heart. Am just voicing my opinion really. I have always enjoyed reading your posts because they are devoid of negativity and abuse. You are entitled to your opinions and convictions - that goes without saying. Your views - and although I do not agree with a lot of the times - brings diversity to this forum.