Forgive the stereotyping, but Americans are legends in their own minds on the subject of free speech. Or, at least they were until George Bush invaded Afghanistan and declared that any criticism, however muted, was tantamount to terrorism.
Perhaps this kind of declaration was inevitable in a country where the public political discourse is limited to discussing the policy options offered by Republicans and Democrats, which is akin to being permitted to choose between brands of toilet paper.
Still, depending on your point of view, American talk radio is vibrant, irreverent and free-wheeling or hysterical, reactionary and offensive. But even by American standards, a line may have been crossed when Radio America-syndicated talk show host Michael Reagan called for the murder of anti-war activist Mark Dice, on the air, June 10.
Evidently, Dice brought down the wrath of Regan by sending letters and DVDs to American troops stationed in Iraq which support the idea that U.S. officials allowed the 9/11 attacks to happen for political purposes.
Said Reagan: “How about you take Mark Dice out and put him in the middle of a firing range. Tie him to a post, don’t blindfold him, let it rip and have some fun with Mark Dice.”
Now, even in the United States (or at least in California) it is against the law to incite murder. So far, thankfully, it has remained a war of words. Dice wants Reagan fired and prosecuted. Reagan has apologized, but Dice, understandably is not reassured.
Here’s a clip of the offending broadcast.
And you can read more at Info Wars.
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* Yes, he’s Ronnie’s adopted son. Never had a chance. Sigh . . .
Paul S. Graham 