#3 This is indeed prime Steyn. As an admirer of Western civilization, Europe's passive plunge into the abyss is a profoundly depressing spectacle. I'd love to think that some kind of tipping point might be reached that could bring lovers of European liberty - regardless of ethnicity - together to make a stand for some of the great principles formed in Europe. But the combination of demographics and the abject refusal of European leaders to face the facts gives little room for comfort, from my perspective at least.
Still, there have been great, unexpected turnarounds and renaissances in history, so maybe there is hope in some ways, if not in all that we would like. Of course, my attitude may be partially explained by the fact that the country I grew up in generally had faith that some higher power held a greater purpose for us despite set-backs and suffering. And many who didn't share this faith at least had respect for the ones who did and their accomplishments. That so many in Europe no longer see it that way bodes poorly, I'm afraid. I'll take American exceptionalism over nanny-state nihilism any day. May we never lose that spirit. |