I was wondering if any intelligent people here could address this one. Given the crackdown on Islamic fundamentalists and anti-Globalization protesters, are we seeing an attempt by the established powers to impose a new orthodoxy on the culture. As in painting all anti-establishment non-conformism as being a variant of 'terrorism'. One effect being to enthusiasm people not to join activist type groups. Another means of maintaining order is to establish Sousveillance systems, as in the targeted group monitors itself.

I don't think terrorism is new. Anarchists were blowing stuff and people up long ago. The word might be over-used but that is the failure of the modern imagination.

I wouldn't fall under 'intelligent people', but as a sarcastic SOB I would say authorities have always tried to impose orthodoxies. That is our main job in life: to undermine any we can identify.

crank wrote:I wouldn't fall under 'intelligent people', but as a sarcastic SOB I would say authorities have always tried to impose orthodoxies. That is our main job in life: to undermine any we can identify.

Don't underestimate yourself - look at the people running the joint these days!

Umm, history degree here, hi how are you.

Heretics never blew up buildings, nor beheaded anyone of the predominant ('rival')faith. They mainly minded their own business and were fodder for the later crusaders. Comparing 'heretics' from the medieval period and modern day terrorists, is like comparing a retarded duck and a pitbull.

ymitchell wrote:Given the crackdown on Islamic fundamentalists and anti-Globalization protesters, are we seeing an attempt by the established powers to impose a new orthodoxy on the culture.

Don't you think it has to do with these people using violence?