Before I let some liberal (Geoff Pipoly, 'Important to Keep Emotions in Check') tell me that an article I agree with made ad hominem arguments and was incoherent and poorly written, I want to tell that guy something of my own.

First, the last line that stated pacifists are either stupid or collaborators was quoted out of context. It was an inflammatory remark of hyperbole to incite action or at least provoke thought. Since the argument was not based around that remark or the other inflammatory introductory remarks, the argument cannot be discarded as ad hominem. Pipoly, it might help to read the whole article, not just the first and last lines'it will make more sense that way.

Next, knowing Pipoly's politics by his previous articles, I find it not surprising that he only speaks up now about ad hominem attacks.

I would like to ask the lovely liberals who are whining over the last article, why they never thought that those offensive and degrading banners on Stonemill might not be ad hominem. 'Fight for the right to beat your wife. Be American, fear everything. Support terrorism, vote Republican.'

I find those banners offensive not even because of my political viewpoint but because of the extent of their sarcasm. Knowing that people are dying to keep America free and calling them terrorists'that just makes me sad. Knowing women really are abused and it is not funny'that makes me angry. Knowing that these residents who write that garbage will be future leaders and have already degraded themselves to mud slinging'that makes me worried.

So before I let some liberal tell me that an article I thought was excellent was just attacks at the personal character of liberals, I want him to examine the character of his cohort and think whether or not they did not have it coming.

Lastly, Pipoly stated that he enjoyed the debate on Iraq that has been occurring in our campus newspaper every week. I think this statement just shows how little Pipoly really deserves to be heard.

Every week I open the paper to see what ignorant hack job article is poorly educating our campus. I will not trade arguments on foreign policy. What I will say is what one of my friends pointed out to me. The students of this campus will never be faced with a moment where it is difficult for them to stand up for what they believe. Rallies, marches and lectures do not constitute making a stand.

Those who stand up and speak out against reserving the right to possibly have to act in Iraq will never feel the consequences of their statements except when they pump gas or have to miss 'Friends' for a presidential address. That is a shame, because if they knew what inaction would lead to, they would never think that submission to any evil hate monger was nobler than trying to protect the ones they love and their way of life and personal dignity.

So keep on enjoying the debate Pipoly because it is pleasantly inconsequential. Everybody, keep on writing editorials because you will never be faced with a situation that will make you realize the ineptitude or ignorance of your position.

This is because other people'terrorists according to the blue house on Stonemill by Rudy's'will always make sure you have the freedom to not have to realize your ignorance. So, if you think I am wrong, go burn the flag and let the Republicans do their jobs.

Randy Linnemann
Junior
English