There have always been good individuals, often very articulate and passionate.  

They have not carried the day.  

It does not work to blame the Government:  Yes the Government is bad, but it always has at least the acquiesence of a large minority, and usually the support of a majority.  

Without dredging the whole of US history, let me just say I have watched the US go to war several times.  There is NEVER any consideration of the goals nor the means.  War!  Yeah!  Let's do it!  (kill strangers in far away places).  It is only after it goes bad that we start to temporize:  Maybe it was a mistake.  It wasn't a mistake, it was what we wanted to do--the desire of our hearts.  

Our hearts really are rotten.  

Again:  Yes, I know there are exceptions, and yes, I was on the streets in New York City in February 2003.  It was fine, it was wonderful, and it was not enough.  Not nearly enough.  Most people wanted to shoot first and ask questions (if at all) after.  And that is what we did.  

Yes I am American.  And I learned some years ago that that is not something that can be changed--remember the part of the PATRIOT Act enabling Bush to declare at whim people to be un-citizens?--a useful tool for a tyrant, yes, but actually he hasn't a clue.  It is not something you can turn off and on like a lightbulb, and it matters not at all whether you like it or don't like it, or whether it is good or bad.  

But to return more closely to my original point:  Look at our stated goal in Iraq--to turn it into a land of Walmarts and McDonald's with a pseudo democracy just like ours.  We think this is a good thing!  This in a land that is thousands of years old--if they wanted McDonald's don't you think they might have invented it?  And if they do want it now, well fine, but how is it our duty to make them want it?  Using White Phosphorus . . . never mind I digress . . . just leave it at this:  

If that is not denying them their own being, what do you call it!  

Just and example.  

The Fates are kind.