Thoughts on George H. W. Bush and Extremism

 

Thoughts on George H. W. Bush and Extremism

Peter Schultz

 

                  In his book, Firewall, Lawrence E. Walsh quotes Anthony Lewis’s comments on George H. W. Bush regarding his lies about his involvement in Iran-Contra, to wit:

 

“Surely there is a level of brazen falsehood that they should be ashamed to breach.” [459]

 

                  So, ala’ Lewis, there are acceptable falsehoods politicians may tell and not be ashamed. Let’s say, “Yes, that’s true.” But what does it teach us about politics and politicians?” Well, that’s easy: falsehoods, up to a certain point, are acceptable, maybe even beneficial or honorable. The noble lie, for example.

 

                  So, the debate as Lewis would frame it would be: Did Bush’s lies – because we know he lied – reach the level of being shameful? He, Bush, shouldn’t be criticized for lying; but he should be criticized for brazenly, shamefully lying.

 

                  Further, take note that the issue at stake – Should the United States have sold arms to recover hostages – has disappeared completely. Or: Are the lives of hostages worth selling some arms for? Or: is it wise to always not deal with terrorists? Even if that means torture and death for hostages?  Seems a bit extreme, does it not? It even seem to be an extremism like the extremism of the hostage-takers.

 

                  Is extremism, like lying, intrinsic to politics? Does affirming the political mean affirming extremism? It would be good to know.