aubreysux

I'd love to hear what you think about the relationship between transparency and Islamist political leadership, especially in Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt. Many Islamist organizations, like the Muslim Brotherhood, were previously non-transparent, exclusive organizations that prided themselves in their secrecy. These organizations are now struggling to figure out how to appease the demands for transparency as legitimate political actors.

Do you see a future in which Islamist political parties could have a share in the governance equation in a high-functioning society? Are we close to that future?

ISIS is pretty horrible, but It is probably hasty to assume that they are "worse" for Iraq than Saddam. The guy was perhaps the most brutal dictator in modern history. That said ISIS is pretty insane and brutal too. I just think makin value judgement on this one isn't helpful and it is insensitive to those who suffered under the previous regime.

What should the US, UN, and other major powers do about the current crisis? Do you think that international pressure and/or external military forces are helpful or necessary?