Disclaimer: I don’t profess to know anything about what is going on in Russia and Georgia. Well, that’s not entirely true. I’ve read the coverage with some interest but I certainly won’t profess to be an expert.
As a result, I don’t have any idea which side of the emerging Coyne/Wells debate I fall on. But man oh man, is it a good debate.
Two intelligent people having a (largely) respectful and informed debate about a major, emerging crisis. In the blogosphere, no less.**
Since Paul Wells’ latest salvo does a good job of tracking the point-counterpoint with handy links I am just going to trust my faithful readers to follow the chain back themselves (it’s early and I’ve barely started my coffee).
When cynics blast blogs (and their related comment threads) as pandering to the base instincts of humanity, when they say the ‘debate’ is really about who can shout their rhetoric with the most force, they are far too often correct. So kudos to Wells and Coyne for actually engaging in some good ol’ fashioned debate online.
** Well, I guess it’s sort of between the blog world and the deadtree press. But hey, it’s close enough for me!