Don't get me wrong, I don't think having a certain reputation or trying to correct past mistakes can excuse any Europeans who choose to join Bush's reactionary "war on terror."  And those who do so will probably be judged ironically by history ... as appeasers and lackeys of the Bush Administration.

And like our Democrats, Europe can choose to go along the bully path of Bush, but know that it will be judged by different standards.  That is, even though they supported him, the Democrats and Tony Blair are still seen as cowards.  

Europe might not achieve the reputation of being the fierce, brave warlords of years gone by anytime soon.  But looking at the instability around the world, it is in the unique position of becoming the touchstone for cool-headed, pragmatic, smart policy.  Let the rest of the world fight over the title of "BadAss."  Meanwhile concentrate on diplomacy, intelligence, education and prosperity and your chances of suffering another vast takeover by extremists will be greatly diminished.  

Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities. -Voltaire