Deep disappointment

I read with interest the editorial and letter concerning the election of George W. Bush. I am a citizen of the USA who did not vote for him. In my circle of friends and acquaintances who did not support him there is an overwhelming feeling of depression and dread, and of deep disappointment in the number of our fellow countrymen who actually went to the polls and selected him. Please know that there are many of us here who are appalled by the actions of our government. And there are many of us who expect the rise of fascism in our country, and know that even voicing our opinion in the future will be dangerous. This is a very difficult time...

I am currently studying modern African history in one of the few such undergraduate courses offered in our country (and offer an apology on behalf of my country for the part we have played in making life a hell for so many Africans). It is true that Americans are for the most part abysmally ignorant of the rest of the world - a common misconception is that Africa is a country.

Our educational system and our media are largely responsible for this sad state of affairs. The seductions of material comfort play their part, also - but I suspect that the latter is not a peculiarly American weakness - it's just that we as a whole have had the opportunity to be so seduced, while in many other countries it is only the leaders who are offered the same temptation. I take comfort in knowing that throughout the world there are, and have always been, people who care about freedom and justice and who dream of peace. We are probably always the minority - but what a dreadful world it would be without us! Thank you for your excellent site. Peace.

Editor's comments: We have had many letters from Americans who share another view of the world to that propounded by Bush and his gang. Depressing though the results of the elections may be, the battle cry must be - as has always been - 'Don't agonise - Organise!'