In which Jon Stewart, and Peter Beinart via a Facebook share headlined, want to know why so many American commentators dont comment on Israel, argue that the passionate reactions surrounding this conflict are, I dont know, stifling debate? Jon Stewart wasnt chastised for commenting, but for commenting badly, for presenting half-truths about a complicated reality, for ignoring the agency of Hamas in this conflict. You dont have to like Israel to know that youre not presenting this war very well if you dont include Hamass decisions in the larger picture. I do want to apologize to Stewart. Just because you comment glibly to a national audience of millions about a conflict where people are dying over narratives that exclude the justice and rights of the other side, doesnt mean you should have to suffer mean Facebook posts. Im sorry the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is complicated. Im sorry it requires a bit more effort than the usual Daily Show fare of digging up some idiot to say something racist for the shock and entertainment of viewers. And Im especially sorry we hurt your feelings by suggesting that your role as a driver of political discourse doesnt just make you cool, it also makes you responsible for what you say.
Posted on: Wed, 23 Jul 2014 06:01:46 +0000
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