Ask Tom Friedman
Nancy Ostertag / Getty
Few newspaper columnists can claim the international influence of the New York Times' Tom Friedman, who won two Pulitzer Prizes as an foreign correspondent and explained globalization to millions in the best-selling book The World Is Flat. Now Friedman has a new cause--the need for clean energy--and a new book coming out on Sept. 8. In Hot, Flat and Crowded, the globe-trotting Friedman explains why America's energy policy has been a geopolitical disaster, and why the next competition among nations will be the race to go green. Use the form below to submit your questions for Tom Friedman, then look for the upcoming interview in TIME Magazine.
Submit your question to Ask Tom Friedman (190 other responses).
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Tom,
Which countries are in best position to lead the global green revolution and which technologies do you think will emerge as the primary drivers of renewable energy ?
Given your great interest in combining environmental stewardship with economic growth, why do you not give more attention to energy recycling, including cogeneration and waste heat recovery? I know of no efficiency solution with more potential to cut carbon emissions and energy costs at the same time.
Which presidential candidate do you think will help America compete in a globalized world?
As a person who has spent a lot of years covering the Middle East, what do you think the next president has to do to help resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict?
"From Beirut to Jerusalem" helped me better understand the politics of the middle east simply because you were unbiased.
What are your thoughts on the future of the middle east in general and Lebanon in specific? Do you still visit Beirut often?
Thank you,
Joelle Yammine
Is Obama's international diplomacy strategy dangerous for Israel?
Do you think that China with it's dire necessity of China go green and it's enormous capabilities in human resources is the next candidate to overtake us all in this quest for survival ?
A couple of years ago George W. Bush made a well-publicized visit to a Michigan manufacturer of electric-generating solar roofing products (United Solar Ovonics) and then went on to virtually ignore everything he learned that day. How do we hold the next president's feet to the proverbial fire to insure that the feds become genuinely supportive of solar, wind and alternative energy production? Big oil's stranglehold on politicians appears to have stifled real attempts to move forward in this area--T. Boone Pickens to the contrary.
Would the "race to go green" eventually alter or even redirect the flow of hegemonistic power to nations who come out on top. If so, would such a redirection of power be solely explained through economic ramifications or by other means?
Like almost everyone else in officialdom, academia and the media in the West, you seem to advance the notion that Islamic belligerence in our time is a manifestation of 19th and 20th century novel and unwarranted interpretation of the Quran put forward by the purported Wahhabism and Muslim Brotherhood. Do you honestly believe this? Or is it a part of some dreamy therapeutic regimen you presume is going straighten out the World of Islam?
Regardless of how we produce energy in the future, it seems unlikely that we can continue to support the low density demographics so evident in the west, the great plains, and parts of the south. Are Americans willing to alter their lifestyles and embrace the high density European or Japanesse residential environment that stresses shorter commutes, public transit, and pedestrian traffic. How can we sell the public on the many advantages of urban density?
Given the enormous environmental challenges facing China's continued rise, is there any chance that they will seize a green initiative over the US? Is that something that should be encouraged given the US's less than stellar performance on the issue?
Mr Friedman, what would you suggest the new President of the U.S. terms of energy policy be specificly.
If low-skilled jobs are outsourced, what do you propose the people who are not qualified for the high-skilled jobs do as a result?
Do you this Obama's latest promise to make US independent of Middle East for its energy needs, within next 10 years, possible? What do you think will be the three most important things to achieve this.
Why does the average American pay so little attention to the lack of a comprehensive United States Energy Policy?
While the nation is working to become more green in our use of energy has as much thought been given to how green is the manufacturing processes to make these items and how green are they when they are at the end of their life cycle. What happens to the batteries in hybrid and plug-in cars when they can no longer be recharged. Are the manufacturing processes that make these batteries green. What does it profit us if the products we use to be green destroy the environment when they are made or disposed of at the end of their usefulness.
Thirty years ago, visionary engineer Buckminster Fuller posed the question: how do we meet the quality of life needs of all humanity in an environmentally sustainable way? That simulation declared the premier solution is clean energy for all -- and specifically to interconnect the high-voltage electric grids between regions and nations, with an emphasis on tapping abundant local and remote renewable energy resources. Fuller said this project would transition the world from fossil (capital energy) to renewables (income energy); elevate 1.6 billion people out of poverty; and foster trade, cooperation and peace between neighboring nations. Are you familiar with this strategy and the proposed benefits?
I'm an old cold war warrior kind of guy but it seems to me that the Russians are taking the high road in South Ossetia / Georgia. Are the Russians in the right and protecting the lives and freedom of the folks living in South Ossetia? Or am I being duped by neo Soviet propaganda?
Why is when you all received the news and to my understanding, you interviewed Cindy Mcain's sister, the daughter of her father. How is it that she revealed the news of how Cindy's mom took her mom from her father and when their father died, not just Cindy Mccain's father, their father died, Cindy and her mom treacherously only allowed her sister to get on 10,000.00 from a multimillion dollar estate left frm their dad. And how her sister stated she wld not vote for them and how she is a very very evil person. So how did you all miss this in your printing. But you didnt hesitate to print and report Obama and his pastor over and over again. If this is not disclosed, by you it will be. And it will be known that you all interviewed this lady and refused to print.
I'm a muslim and my wife is of jewish heritage. There was very little hatred of jews in the muslim world before Israel's creation and certainly no genocide. Examples of good times abound. Muslim India, Muslim Spain, Turkish Caliphate etc.
I've travelled extensively in the muslim world and find that people actually detest the ACTIONS of Israel and wouldn't care for the issue if the Jerusalem was shared between Jews and Palestinian Christians/Muslims and things were settled amicably. No amount of media barrage or propaganda will change their minds as we're finding right now. Only if they saw justice done to the Arab Christians/Muslims, will they like the jews again. Simple as that. Currently, things don't look good as Israel abuses its awesome power (and that of the US), sadly.
Are you a zionist? Why? Intellectual jews, such as yourself, should really advise the militant zionists to choose peace and settle this issue. Otherwise, I'm afraid that this young global muslim population (now reaching almost 2 billion) will never know what it is to see fairness from Jews in power. Why can't Israel take the high road, rather than look for excuses to continue to occupy land? Imagine what it would do to the Muslim-Jew issue?
I wish to see peace in the Middle east..and want to see Jews actually living everywhere, like they used to. Loved, respected and protected, like they once were.
Time is of the essence. I've enjoyed many of your articles and would like to see asto what you think of this critical and centric global issue.
Thanks and kind regads, Tom.
Shalom/Salaam.
This is in regard to Iraq Policy.
Should voters give more importance to the would be President's policy or listen carefully to the reports on the field and then decide?
Obama policy really scare me of polling out of Iraq, because when ever Michael Ware (CNN report in Bagdad) says , at what cost and consequences will be. As per his observations we will left Sunni's on Shiva's mercy. There are 100% chances that Shias will take revenge, in that case with whose side American are suppose to fight?
I very much liked the way you captured/described the 'flatness' of the world in the Information Technology arena. I am wondering if you would consider/answer these two questions:
1) is flatness a stable state of affairs, or just a moment in time, while progress is swinging back and forth from one player/group of players to another. If the former, one could live with that, if the latter, the West will be on the losing side for a long while.
2) would you consider a multidimensional flatness (or trends to flatness), i.e. in certain disciplines, industries it is more advanced/manifest than in others. If yes, one could take advantage of the disciplines/professions that are still giving and edge in a given geography.
Thank you.
Tom,
You seems to a great guy! Why don't you run for the President of United States?
I will vote for you.
Is there any chance of promoting the notion among the people of all nations that having fewer children is the answer to most of our global problems?
Is it possible ...The Borrowers, The Lenders, and The Overseers....in the Housing Industry can be held responsible and accountible to varying degrees that work for ...The Greater Good... and could this translate to other industries like Healthcare and its ...Patients,Physicians, and Policymakers....
It seems to me we need some 'New Math Language' that factors into statistical evolution such that we include and transcend "competition and cooperation" and embrace a higher collaboration on certain fronts
Tom,
I am re-reading your book 'The World is Flat' with highlighter in hand and I am marking all the points that you make that are questionable. I can barely turn a page without highlighting something...did you research anything or did you just talk to Executives who have profited tremendously from outsourcing everything they can?
You book is so full of holes you should be able to see daylight through it.
I am planning to send you a copy of my mutilation of your book - I am hoping that you will browse it and do a little research (or hire some Indians to do it for you) and discover how many un-truths you have printed.
I realize that like Michael Moore you must ignore or gloss-over points that counter your arguments, but to lie and mislead so often is shameful and unnecessary.
Interestingly, I do not feel that globalization is evil or unavoidable - I just feel that a book about the topic should be truthful and I certainly expected more from you.
I think it would have been great if you closed the book by saying something like, "Hahahahaa - all you dumb suckers bought my book and now I am even richer! Yeah capitalism! My kids will never have to work because I am leaving them a huge trust fund thanks to you idiots! Oh, by the way, I was just kidding about all the stuff in this book - I never spoke with Bill Gates and Michael Dell won't return my emails. You didn't actually read and/or believe any of this garbage did you? Wow, maybe China really is going to eat our lunch..."
I am a little bitter at having contributed to your financial success, can you tell?
Have hostilities between Russia and Georgia demolished your "Golden Arches Theory of Conflict Prevention"?
Hi Tom,
To fix the nation's ifrastructure, wean ourselves from foreign oil with alternative fuels and create an educational system (K1-12) that is the envy of the world is going to cost many TRILLIONS of dollars. We're broke, Tom. Where do you expect to find the money? Dubai?
do you think that will be a west-iran conflict soon ?
Dear Mr. Friedman,
Do you think Peak Oil and Global Warming are two issues which will cause Americans to focus on going green? Or do you think that the two issues are in conflict with each other and will force Amercans to address one problem at the expense of a solution to the other problem(for example: utilizing oil shale versus the use of green alternatives)?
Respectfully,
Kevin Fathi
Mr. Friedman,
Please discuss the selection of Palin by McCain in terms of energy policy. It seems that Ms. Palin was a big supporter of drilling at the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska. Am I wrong? Also, I am wondering where Palin figured into the settlement with Exxon and other preventative negotiations with big oil in Alaska, given the huge damage they created in her state.
McCain has already mentioned national drilling as a means to an end.
Where does Palin figure in with this plan?
Sincerely,
Kim Linden
Between Sarah Palin and Joe Biden who do you see has making more of an impact on their respective running mates' campaigns? Biden with his experience in national security or Palin with her record as a maverick?
Are you a Wolf in Sheep's Clothing?
You have supported higher prices for oil (and, therefore, gasoline) and have argued that if the government enacted a tax that had the effect of creating a floor on the price to the public (redistributing the revenue to the public so as to be revenue neutral), that would be a GOOD thing, encouraging conservation and alternative energy source innovation. I agree with your logic, but in the insane political environment of our country, how will it ever be possible to convince others? Name one prominent politician who has the courage to take this position.
Mr. Friedman,
I have read your book - "The world is flat". Considering the slowdown in the American economy and the rhetoric coming out of Washington about outsourcing, coupled with the rising wages in India, what course, do you think, outsourcing will take in the near future.
You supported the US invasion of Iraq while your wife was against it. Does she now feel vindicated, and have you admitted that perhaps you were wrong?
Dear Sir,
Is this the age of the super state? China, India, Russia, Brazil and the USA are all large powers with ethnic diveristy, strong national cultures and organic nationalism. Will this lead to conflict and is the EU nothing more than an economic union, a straw man on the international stage as it seems to be?
What was is it like to win two Pulitzer Prizes?What do you think of the viability of the cap and trade method that companies employ to care care of their 'green image'? There is virtually no way to gauge its effect on the environment.Do you think the vast sums of money will be lost to a wasted cause.
Tom, what SPECIFICALLY can or should a president (as opposed to congress) do to make "green industry" a reality? It seems the key policy decisions are really in the hands of the legislative rather than the executive branch, and anything remotely controversial ends up tied up in the courts for years. Truly, what can ACTUALLY be executed in the near future to change our system and drive the innovation we need.
Which do you think will come first - a Palestinian state, a kurdish state, an iranian nuke and truly democratic and stable arab state ?
What do university students like myself need to be focusing our minds on to best contribute in a globalised world? What jobs and areas of service will become increasingly important?
This may seem like a joke, but it is a serious question. I write from a Canadian perspective here. Are Americans (as in the masses) really as dumb as they seem?
Much of the American electorate seems to be isolationist, opposing free trade and other forces of globalization. Politicians pander to these isolationist tendencies repeatedly during the election period, however when they take office they often realize that isolationism is not the way to go, and tweak their policies. Do you think that politicians should straight out declare that they are against isolationism and that globalization is inevitable, instead of disingenuously pandering to the electorate?
Tom, why did your reporter on the Palin story fail to point out that she was for the Bridge to Nowhere before she was against it? We here in the Northwest have observed her vast exaggerations of her resume but this is the worst.
http://blogs.tnr.com/tnr/blogs/the_plank/archive/2008/08/29/did-palin-really-fight-the-bridge-to-nowhere.aspx
Did Palin Really Fight The "Bridge To Nowhere"?
Republicans have been heavily touting Sarah Palin's reformist credentials, with her supposed opposition to Alaska's "Bridge to Nowhere" as Exhibit A. But how hard did she really fight the project? Not very, it seems. Here's what she told the Anchorage Daily News on October 22, 2006, during the race for the governor's seat (via Nexis):
5. Would you continue state funding for the proposed Knik Arm and Gravina Island bridges?
Yes. I would like to see Alaska's infrastructure projects built sooner rather than later. The window is now--while our congressional delegation is in a strong position to assist.
So she was very much for the bridge and insisted that Alaska had to act quickly—the party of Ted Stevens and Don Young might soon lose its majority, after all. By that point, the project was endangered for reasons that had nothing to do with Palin—the bridge had become a national laughingstock, Congress had stripped away the offending earmark, shifting the money back to the state's general fund, and future federal support seemed unlikely. True, after Palin was sworn into office that fall, her first budget didn't allocate any money for the bridge. But when the Daily News asked on December 16, 2006, if she now opposed the project, Palin demurred and said she was just trying to figure out where the bridge fit on the state's list of transportation priorities, given the lack of support from Congress.
***
Anchorage Daily News, 10/5/06: Palin Said She Supported The So-Called "Bridge To Nowhere," But Was Concerned Money "Flow" Was "Going too Slow":
As for the infamous 'bridges to nowhere,' MacDonald asked if the candidates would forge ahead with the proposed Knik Arm crossing between Anchorage and Point MacKenzie and Ketchikan's Gravina Island bridge. Each has received more than $90 million in federal funding and drew nationwide attacks as being unnecessary and expensive. He also asked if they support building an access road from Juneau toward -- but not completely connecting to -- Skagway and Haines. 'I do support the infrastructure projects that are on tap here in the state of Alaska that our congressional delegations worked hard for,' Palin said. She said the projects link communities and create jobs. Still, Palin warned that the flow of federal money into the state for such projects is going too slow.
Those familiar with your work will undoubtedly by aware of your stance in regard to the energy policies of the U.S. government, particularly the Bush administration. Can you comment on how congressional demands for "sound science" and the increased regulatory influence of industry-sponsored scientists have led to what law professor David Vladeck called "paralysis by analysis"*?
*Mooney, Chris. "The Republican War on Science", 2005
Dear Mr. Friedman,
I am a great admirer, up to the point that after reading TWIF I decided to come to Shanghai and be part of the World flatness.
My question is: does someone cares about gravity on earth?? From all the Eco concerns about green house emissions, global warming, etc. nobody seems to target something really scary: TONS of oils being extracted from our surface and burned every day.
I am not an expert (actually I am a tax lawyer) but logic tells me that this MUST be a problem sooner or later in the world balance of the world. I am right?
All the very best,
Eric Bruzzone
Chilean enjoying life in Shanghai
Do gas prices fall before elections because energy companies seek to take the issue off of the table, as a struggling economy tends to favor the Democrats, and lower gas prices help to alleviate financial suffering?
http://www.scribald.blogspot.com
My question is, is the "green revolution" misfiring -- toward an automobile based economy?
As the world flattens, will we drive as many miles? If Comcast has a cap on the internet use, isn't that part of our energy problem?
Do we have an energy policy which provides the right mix of energy and internet infrastructure build-out/regulation?
Tom
Considering the way our politicians completely ignore this issue, do you think America will lose its scientific and technological edge in the next 10 years? And how do we fix this problem. Do we focus on increasing government funding of basic scientific research, do we need to hire more qualified teachers, should we eliminate the cap on H1B visas to allow the best and brightest to come to America if they choose to, or is it just that Americans are no longer interested in the subjects and no longer want to put in the time and effort to become great scientists and engineers?
Since you usually write about IRAN political affair in NewYork Times. What makes IRAN's affair interesting for you?
I enjoyed your book the "World is Flat." What countries now are most energy conscious now and have shown the greatest innovation of green policies in the past decade? Which countries will turn to green efforts in the next decade? What will drive these changes?
What is the best strategy to ensure Mother Earth will actually see a reduction in overall pollutants?
For example, if the rich nations adopt green energy first, it will reduce the price of oil, and which in turn will provide great incentive for emerging economies/poorer countries to buy polluting automobiles. From Earth's point of view, the net effect is more pollutants and the game is lost.
Instead, if emerging economies adopt green vehicles first, then it would have two major benefits: first, cars would be created at the price point of emerging economies can handle. This would greatly stimulate demand in the rich countries as well. With a backstop in place in emerging economies, and even with plummeting oil prices, green cars would still be preferred the world over. Net result, Mother Earth wins.
So, this may sound counter-intuitive, but the right policy and strategy for America and the rich nations is to aggressively fund the development of green cars for emerging economies like India and China, isn't it?
Tom,
I'm just outraged by John McCain's VP Pick. I feel that John McCain has proven that he thinks women across this great nation are too stupid to know that we are being "pandered" to for our votes!!!! I"m insulted beyond words that John McCain assumes that if he "dangled" his beauty queen in front of our noses that we would just ROLL OVER and hand him our support. He is sadly mistaken.
It's funny that after witnessing Sen. Obama's speech and witnessing 85,000+ American voters from all over this country, not just Democrats, but Republican and Independents, John McCain is NOW copying Sen. Obama's "CHANGE" message. Funny that huh? He certainly can't use the "inexperienced" argument, because he just put his $600 pair of shoes in his mouth!!!
This doesn't prove change, this proves that John McCain did NOT put his "Country First". He clearly is using just "any" woman in his thinking to sway Hillary's supporters. Well, I'm here to say that I will NEVER vote for John McCain. He has broken the straw on this camel's back with his blatant disgrace to women in this country. AND to add insult to injury he picks a woman that is pro-life, a member of the NRA, etct. ARE you kidding me? We certainly don't need just "any" woman representing John McCain's policies and who will support any attempts by John McCain to silence a "woman's RIGHT TO CHOOSE", and any attempts to SILENCE our voices!!!
John McCain gambled and he LOST.
NO WAY, NO HOW, NO JOHN McCAIN!!!
TO ALL THOSE TRUE HILLARY CLINTON SUPPORTERS:
If you dishonor Sen. Clinton by supporting John McCain's pandering, then you were NEVER loyal Hillary Clinton supporter to begin with. Sarah Palin is NOT Hillary Clinton and will never be.
Sen. Hillary Clinton has 35+ years of Public Service under her belt and has EARNED the respect and honor of her achievements.
Sen. Hillary Clinton is NOT a member of the NRA.
Sen. Hillary Clinton is all about "PRO-CHOICE" and believes that NO MAN should have the sole power in deciding what happens to any woman's body!!!
Sen. Hillary Clinton has been a champion for WOMEN'S RIGHTS and she continues to be and advocate for middle class families.
Sen. Clinton has been in the SENATE longer than Ms. Palin has been a Govenor. A Govenor mind you, of a state with a population less than that of Raleigh, NC!!!!
LADIES, are you willing to just SELL OUT your votes because John McCain "dangles" Ms. "Beauty Queen" in front of your noses? Is that the extent of your support for Hillary Clinton? Are we so daft that we are easily "baam-boozled" by the likes of John McCain? Are YOU willing to RISK your daughter's future on John McCain's policies that will focus on SILENCING HER VOICE and ALL women's voices across this country?
Is that what you truly want in a President?
Why is it so difficult for us Americans to see the massive potential and inherent power in being green? Why is it so un-American to be efficient and indeoendent?
I've been concerned about Homo sapiens of late. I wrote a piece to help out but can't figure how to get seen widely. Can you help?
Thank you for your time, dib
D.I.Benton
19 Caspian Way
Fitchburg, MA
01420
978-400-5488
Going green is easy for the first world, but what should citizens with no basic needs aspire to in a country such as mine, Lebanon?? where the debate isn't about global warming, but is still about national/regional security..
I enjoy reading your work and watching your interviews. I always get a chuckle, though, when I think back to one of your interviews (with Tim Russert I believe) during the latest Israeli-Lebanese war. You were advocating a particular "bold, imaginative" diplomatic strategy with the Syrians and you were asked, "What if the Syrians say no?". Your answer was "Then, I don't know". So, as a bold thinker on foreign relations explaining how statesman should think more clearly, you could think at most 1 move ahead in foreign policy. I don't think our current politicians do any worse than that. It must be kind of nice advocating positions but not responsible for actually implementing them.
What responsibility do you take for misleading the American people about the buildup/execution of the Middle East debacle? While watching you in the media for years I would always cringe when you would smugly assure that your Middle East "sources" tell you various tales such as "Americans would be greeted as liberators," the old Cheney bull.... When things fell apart you ran for cover under the Neo-con excuse "they didn't run the war the way I said it should be run" while not acknowledging that, gee, maybe we made a mistake. Maybe I was wrong! Good time to change the topic to, uh, outsourcing. Americans have a short memory and are easily manipulated by whoever has the media connections (Karl Rove). Old Europe watched as the Soviet Union depleted itself in Afghanistan and now the "Flat" world watches as America bleeds its treasures on foreign soil. All about religion (in your case) and energy . I think you are a good marketer Tom, definitely not a great truth teller or Patriot to the United States.
Is it fair for America to live in so much spare land, so much agricultural produce ,consume so much energy and then shut the door on legal skilled immigrants, despite its history of using immigrants.
Dear Mr. Friedman,
As the world embraces green technologies, hopefully there will be less demand for oil.
In your opinion, how would the reduction of income affect oil exporters politically, especially in the Middle East? Which ones would be better/less prepared to the economic downfall, and how would this impact their role in world politics?
Thanks for taking the time to answer, not just my questions but also all the many other interesting questions already posted.
T. Boone Pickens is pushing for natural gas to be used to fuel our vehicles and many enviros are behind him including the Sierra Club, citing it as a stopgap measure until biofuels are ready for mass production. Natural gas is produced and sold in the U.S. as opposed to oil which is sold on the open market. This makes it an attractive alternative to many people who would like to see us end our reliance on foreign oil.
I have not found any discussions about the environmental impacts to the regions targeted for production of the huge amounts of natural gas that will be needed if this plan is implemented but it should be of concern and since our tendancy is to use up all available resources before accepting the idea of "switching" to new sources wont this actually delay progress on freedom from fossil fuels?
Dear Mr.Friedman
In my opinion you have a solid background about the politics in the middle east , so I would like to ask about the future of the politic life in Saudi Arabia?
Best Regards
Idrus
Mr. Friedman, please share your opinion and contrast the the foreign policy expertise and understanding of the four people now running for the highest offices in America. Thank you.
what do you think what will be the future of oil companies and oil nations.By going green you develop a whole new industry but also on the cost of time-span.what are those sectors that you think will be most benefited. what will be the American interest left in the south east Asia, where there is huge deposits of undiscovered oil.
I used to be a huge fan of Friedman and thought his book "From Beirut to Jerusalem" should be required reading for the powers that be. That said - I don't even read him anymore since he became a cheerleader for the Iraq War.
Why is it that the jews want restricted immigration to Israel, but want open borders for the USA?
Tom,
what do you think what will be the future of oil companies and oil nations.And also the American interest in south east Asia where there is a huge undiscovered oil deposits.
By going green you develop a whole new industry but also on the cost of time-span.what are those sectors and nations that will be most benefited and effected.
That's my only problem with democracy, everything is subject to the highest bidder with the lobbys! Question: Is there any hope for the political process to do enough or will some sort of social revolution or catastrophic event be required to get people and companies to Go Green? Will the multinationals always be able to convince enough of us to let them do whatever they want, since their executives can always isolate themselves from whatever problems they create. The politicians cant get elected without money, and so they help guide the debate in favor of big money. The only people that care don't have the resources(irony) to protect our resources.
I built an underground garden so I'm set, but the rest of you are up the creek without a paddle.
Do you think the United States would be willing to collaborate with a consortium of nations to find true solutions to our world's problem with fossil fuels? Would that be pending to the policies of the next presidential administration?
How can blue-collar American workers continue to compete in a "flat" world when other nations allow their citizens to work for next to nothing?
After a bipolar and then a unipolar world, we are on the verge of a multi-polar world where massive conglomerates like China, India, the EU, Russia, and Brazil are becoming increasingly powerful and assertive. They are also willing to protect their turf at all costs. Do you think the Americans will be able to live in such a world or are they ready to quit the neighbourhood and colonize Mars?
How is it that the Republicans are so amazingly backwards on this stuff, while the democrats manage to be just slightly backwards...and why isnt anyone progressive?
In the seminal book, Democracy in America, by a Frenchman, Alex Tocqueville, in 1835, the author expressed his concerns that Democracy might produce mediocre candidates. His concerns have being attested many times in American Presidential politics over the past one hundred and seventy three years.
In a complicated, overly competitive and dangerous world today where America is no more the center of universe, if this democratic system can not produce proven, experienced candidates to lead this country, what is the value of this system?
I'm mostly depressed by the comments made by so called political experts. It seems that most of them were more interested in debating whether McCain has made a bold move for his campaign instead of whether he has made a good move for future America as the world leader.
I am concerned when watching the cable networks and even public broadcasting about the seemingly personal opinions and evaluations of reporters. Some seem seriously lacking in backround or credentials to make the evaluations they do. Even the better known anchors toss out statements or judgements quickly. EG: When listening to Tom Brokar after the Michael Obama speech... he said" African American women were weeping," When the camera panned I saw many women with tears. The same night Andrea Mitchell said that the loudest roar came When Mrs. Obama mentioned Hillary Clinton... not that I heard they were many loud roars.. What do you suggest? Reading print materials one can tell what is opinion and what is researched(usually), but their seems no way to stop the inexpert, and biased "talkers", or to hold them accountable. Thanks for your attention
I enjoyed your lecture at UNLV last year. If you were to make a speech-based movie like Al Gore's, what issue would it be on?
what is the impact of growing US population with its standard of living on climate
Mr. Friedman,
I am a huge fan of your conversational writing style, what advice to you have for aspiring writers besides write everyday?
I thought I saw Elvis walking around outside of our work building. I was kind of tired at the time and not really sure. Has anyone else seen him also? Has he been reincarnated or is it possibly his relative?
you have traveled around the wold. where is your most favorite counry and why ?
Is it reasonable to think that 10 years is a meaningful time frame for anything significant to happen on US domestic energy consumption patterns? Will alternative energy options really be supported to the extent that they generate at scale?
If Bangladesh can put solar panels in front of their houses by training women technicians, do you think something missing in our basic energy saving?
Gov. Brian Schweitzer has proposed a multi-faceted approach, using clean-coal technology, biofuels and solar, wind and nuclear in addition to protecting current oil supplies until alternatives can be found. I guess his approach has to be the way, but how can we get our congressional leaders to start making these necessary changes?
Someone has to have the will and the persuasion to get these things started ,but entrenched lobbying by huge conglomerates are making these things very difficult... is there any sign of the coalitions we'll need beginning to work?
Dave C.
I am excited by Governor Sarah Palin's decision to be McCain's VP. I have just read Chaney's qualification and I feel she has far more political executive experience than he had. She is a refreshing choice and one with an abundance of common sense. Let's give her a fair chance to present her intellectual gifts and visions of change. Why is she being questioned on her ability to make executive decisions when she has made some impressive executive decisions in her roles both as Mayor and Governor? Plus, her popularity rating is exceedingly high in Alaska. Does Alasca not count in Washington?
Mr. Friedman,
I recently backpacked through Europe for five weeks and couldn't help but notice an overwhelmingly superior infrastructure system. I've heard recent estimates for updating our own infrastructure reaching $1 Trillion. Are those numbers sound? why isn't this a bigger campaign issue? Do you think my fellow citizens would permit a 1-2% tax increase to pay for such projects? I would gladly...I think that makes two of us...
Tom,
The most efficient energy resource is fossil fuels which powered America's industrial engine for over a hundred years . An even better source is nuclear energy. America cannot cede vital energy resources to China, Russia or any other country that will take offshore US oil and claim it as their own. With a billion Chinese who are eager to purchase and drive cars they will require gasoline. Do you see the Chinese and US competition for petroleum a future battleground?
The World may be flat for the middle class, but what about for the rest of the world that suffers due to the gain of others?
Where do you get your inspiration to write your books?
What kind of feeling did you get when knowing you when the Pulitzer Prize?
Do you believe in Global Warming?
Out of all the places you've been to, which one is your favorite place?
Why do you believe that the next competition among nations will be the race to go green?
Why did you decide to write The World Is Flat?
Do you believe that the energy crisis here in America can ever be cured?
Will you continue to write more books about the energy crisis and other topics in America in the near future?
Why were you an early supporter of the Iraq War, but then became an outspoken critic of it?
why don't more people recycle? don't they care about their world ? myquestion is Why don't more companies do it to set a good exsample? plese recycle to help.
Given our current energy crisis, and the end of cheap oil, do you think the pace of globalization that has seemed unstoppable in recent years will begin to slow or even retract?
Do you think that your Jewish background plays a part in your writings?
How was the experience of going to both India and China in 2004?
What is the one thing you think that every person in the world needs to know about energy policy????
For lack of a better word. What is the "greenest "country in the world and why??
Your book The Lexus and the Olive Tree deals with international relations, whereas your other book The World is Flat deals with the race to go green, where did you get the inspiration to write about both of those subjects?
The west is nothing if not self-critical, whatever our many failings. Have you seen any hopeful signs of such self-reflection among in the Arab lands in the Middle East?
Simple one..
I seem to believe that "The Lathe OF Heaven" is one of the most interesting and questionable story.. thought.. etc.. about.
Several renditions.. most simply "Miss the point".. IMHO.
Such as…. Who are you? What will be your next day? Rambling.
Thanks for a hint.
I hope I remember this when I awake.
Perhaps not.. LOL.. At least it's been a pretty day in Charleston, SC.
Don
How do you see the effects of U.S. elections on Pakistan and what would be the policy of US for Pakistan, after their very alley Mr. Mussharraf has gone?
When we speak about going green - it ought to make economic sense too- else will not pull people to adopt this concept
For instance - in a gas fired industiral kiln/ furnace - if effluents need to be burned by an after burner( which means additional investment) - the approach should be to recycle the waste heat so as to bring down the fuel consumption to a level lower than that prior to installing the after burner
Your comments please !!
Hello Tom , I have been reading your writings on globalization for a long time , I really appreciate your intellect and analytical skills .
Do you think a Muslim can become US president by 2050 ?
Another question how do you think Muslims can engage themselves and be successful in the modern world of globalization ?
What are the most fundamental drawbacks, if any, to battery-powered households and how can these problems be overcome? I specifically mean batteries that store the electricity generated from solar panels. Batteries seem to be made from resources that take a huge toll on the environment to extract and process. Do we even have enough of these elements available to make a dent in a population of 8 to 12 billion?
Do you foresee technology for harvesting methane expulsions from humans?
What will be the truly devastating results, economically, to the individual American lifestyle without oil? Yes, environmental impact is a given.
Dear Sir,
I am writing in relation to a matter that is causing me and a lot my friends a great disturbance and disgust. We have read recently in a number of financial newspapers and magazine on a syndicated loan arranged by a group of Arab banks led by Commercial International Bank, the largest private sector bank in Egypt and ex-affiliate of the US Chase Manhattan Bank, for the Saudi Bin Ladan Group. We are not sure if this is a coincidence or deliberate act by CIB. But all what we are concerned about now that CIB could be one of the banks that Osama Bin Ladan uses indirectly to launder its funds. So, we believe that this is a matter worth investigating by your institution to close any gab that can be used by these wahabi fundamentals. No justification should be accepted from a bank like CIB for such major lapse in its compliance system.
Kind regards
Tom,
how far away are we from a 4k kw solar system
for our homes, in the 10,000 12,000 dollar range?
How do you feel about the ethnic cleansing against palestinians. How do you feel about the theft of palestinian lands,
israel is an apartheid regime building a wall that was deemed illegal by international court. If this is not you position, do you consider your self a journalist or a propaganda expert?
Hi Tom,
I really admire and envy your writings . I believe you are one the best writers in the world.Can you help me be like you?
Daoud 281-318-9276
I wonder why you become the target of critique?
Hi,
Why is that a presidential candidate who puts "country first" picked a VP who knows absolutely nothing about any foreign issues and whom he hardly knows as second in command? Does he think american women are that ignorant? This is nothing but insulting the mere intellectual capability of americans, especially women.
Dear Tom,
In today's globlized world economy, what should be the correct postion toward a country like Iran, that dose not want to play the International Relation game, and do you think the tough talk and no action of present adminstration in the US will sufice for this country to change its attitude toward the international norm?
What should the next President of the USA do to deal with this rouge government?
You were inspired by your trip to Bangalore, India and Shanghai, China to come up 'The World is Flat'. What moved you to write 'Hot, Flat and Crowded'?
In your previous book 'The World Is Flat', you have the term 'unflattened world' for those countries that does is not that 'globalized. In percentage, how 'flat' do you think the world is?
Tom,
How does a country balance a growing globalized economy with a fierce and decisive energy plan?
?? Should the United States / European Union / Japan embark on a "Manhattan-type" Project to produce a vehicle with 75mpg (gasoline/diesel/electric/...) ??
Considering the rising labour wages in developing countries like India, do you think the World will remain flat for long?
Considering that consumers have been trained to only consider the immediate implications of their actions to their own pocketbooks, how do we influence behavior changes that may for some time cost each person more money? Americans have lost sight of long-range planning and have trouble comprehending issues that "future generations" may face. Global warming, energy, trash, even education have been tough sells. Awareness is there, but behavior changes are, at best, difficult.
When you write a book, do you know what the major themes/messages are going to be before you start writing; or do the major themes develop and evolve as you write the book?
i CONSIDER Robert Fisk the last journalist with integrity, how do you rate your self next to him?
As a new citizen in this country, I'm deeply concerned with the future of energy supply. Americans consume 6 times more energy than those in other industrialized nations, like Japan, Germany, France and the UK.
Why the candidates from both parties do not mention the above fact and come up a plan with less energy consumption? As a matter of fact, the oil and gas from the US Gulf of Mexico can supply 25% and 33% of the national energy needs. If Americans consume the same energy as the Japanese, we don't need to import a drop of oil from the Middle East!
In my humble opinion, a tilted energy policy should be established by the Federal Government in which public transportation should be encouraged, and gas guzzling SUVs should be punished with the equivalent of damaging the environment.
Mr. Friedman,
will you apologize to the Iraqi people and the men and women of the coalition armed forces and their families for the outrageous and anti-human comments you made on The Charlie Rose Show justifying the US invasion of Iraq?
(For the reader: Thomas Friedman justified US invasion of Iraq as a way to show that the US retaliates and called for Iraq to "Suck. On. This." Friedman is thus in part responsible for the hundreds of thousands of Iraqis and the thousands of US servicemen and -women who have died as a result of this monstrous war. Despite this verbal crime against humanity, he maintains a platform which reaches an audience of millions by way of his position as Columnist for the NYT.)
What do you think of Conrad Black languishing in a Florida prison? If journalists such as yourself engage in propaganda instead of journalism. what will that lead to? Do you think the US image is suffering in the world because of this?
Mr. Friedman,
As the globalization goes on and on, the demand for natural resources, like oil and gas, and water will be more and more. Many people predict that the future conflict between the U.S. and China will not be on the ideological side, but rather on the natural resources.
Do you think the U.S. is ready for the conflict? If yes, how?
Thanks.
Studies have shown corn based ethanol will not reduce greenhouse gases and at the same time they will increase food prices. Do you see them being a part of the energy solution?
What are the chances China crumbles among international pressure and allows more freedoms?
Tom,
Why, in your best evaluation, have veteran aftercare issues been so horrid in this current generation of those who have served post-911???
Didn't this problem run its course from the Vietnam War generation?
Thanks, for taking my question.
Many lives are at stake due to this American problem
What role will higher education play in the next century, and are we doing enough to support our universities?
Do you regret your support of the invasion of Iraq?
It's obvious that we need to search for alternative sources of energy: wind, solar energy, nuclear energy, syn and flex fuels, etc. In the meantime, what argument can you give for or against offshore drilling and drilling for oil in the Alaskan National Wildlife Reserve (ANWR) while addressing legitimate environmental or big business concerns? Granted, this is only a "quick fix," but don't you think we need a quick fix right now, with gasoline nearly $4 a gallon in some places in the US?
You were one of the first level-headed and grounded voices regarding the Palestianian-Israeli conflict. What you do you think is the next step towards peace?
Mr. Friedman,
This January, China surpassed the United States as the world's leader in carbon emissions. If we read between the statistics, we might find that multi-national corporations have played an enormous role in China becoming the world's leader in carbon emission. Could it be that the Kyoto Accord has been too onerous for the countries that signed it, without placing responsibility on multi-national corporations that pollute in Mexico and China as well as in the US? How can we place the responsibility of complying with environmental standards where it belongs, on the corporations that pollute? I don't think that happened in Kyoto.
It seems, that prior to discussing how best to enact change, we need to determine how to first bring about the desire for it. With so many Americans failing to embrace even a passing concern for self-limitation, how do we convey the value and seriousness of it on a singular, grassroots level?
Is there any way to answer the question, once and for all, about the potential risk and reward of drilling in ANWR? I've been opposed, but I don't honestly think I've heard both sides discuss it with intelligence and not emotion. Can't we "explore" exploration without causing harm?
What's your view on Peak Oil, and how worried should we be?
Tom,
You've helped me help my students better understand the Middle East, globalization, and in your recent NY Times op-eds, the need to go green. What can we look forward to next?
Have you yet have awareness of so-called terra preta (black soil) with the triple uses as soil enrichment medium, carbon sequestration ability and energy producing potential? Its properties seem almost magical - do a Google on these words, terra preta black soil. The US House has a committee relating to this topic; see globalwarming.house.gov
Thank you.
DEAR TOM .I KNOW YOU FOR MANY YEARSI . NEED HELP'.
I AM 93 A HOLOCAUST SURVIVER AND W.WAR 2 WOLUNTEER SURVIVER WITH THE 8TH ARMY. FROM EAST TO NORTH AFRICA.
I AM SORRY TO TAKE THIS WAY . THE SHERRIFS DEPARTMENT OF THIS LEE COUNTY IS TERRORISING ME SINCE 18 MONTH. 3 MONTH AGO THEY ATTACKED ME WITHOUT ANY REASON. . I WAS INJURED MY ATTORNEY FILED 2 COMPLAINS. THEY ARE TRYING TO SWEEP IT UNDER THE CARPET. FL.SENATOR DAVE ORENBERG WILL NOT INTERVENE. HE IS IN CHARGE OF FLORIDA. I WILL NOT GIVE UP. PLEASE HELPJ.FRITZ HOLZBERG
I remember watching your documentaries in geography last year, What was your biggest challenge dealing with the Middle Easterners in "Roots to 9/11?"
If Israel gives up land for peace, do you think there will really be peace? Or is it a ploy on the Arabs' part just to regain land?
Mr. Friedman:
Out of all of the hubbub over nuclear technologies becoming more widespread as cleaner approaches to power generation, I have feared the appearance of more Yucca Mountains both here in America and abroad to dispose of the decidedly environmentally-unfriendly radioactive waste. Why will we not put more emphasis on solar, wind, and geothermal technologies, and what are other countries doing in comparison?
Tom,
What is the population of the state of Alaska?
Do you think Americans have unrealistic expectations for the government when it comes to reducing the reality of risk in our lives? With international media coverage of natural disasters around the world on the rise, we've become more and more alert to the possibility and realities of floods, earthquakes, storms, and hurricanes somewhere in the world any time of the year.
I ABSOLUTELY do not mean to be callous or inconsiderate of ANY human or other loss from these tragedies. And I don't mean to offend anyone with this potentially politically incorrect question.
When we look at the recent destruction in the Chinese earthquakes with an estimated 70,000 human beings dead, or look at the current flooding in India with 700,000 people displaced, how much can we conclude that living in certain areas (such as areas along the coast, areas by forests prone to fire, or areas geographically below sea level) involves risk and sometimes, well, you have to have a plan to take care of yourself.
Do you believe that the Beijing Olympic Games is an excellent example of how developing nations are taking part in the green movement?
What do you think it takes for Africa to burst out of underdevelopment as it happened in certain parts of Asia? Do you think the Congo River project holds the way and is that a project that needs the attention of the world?
thank you,
Tom
I wish to know your thoughts on the future of globalisation and the approach western leaders will take to support it or deny it.Hasn't globalisation been beneficial to world including the west?Then why do westerners complain of outsourcing being a threat to their economy.I feel outsourcing has been wrongly a victim of hatred along with all the other issues the US faces today like the Iraq war,credit crisis,housing etc.with Don't you think there is a lack of understanding about outsourcing when people say it cuts jobs?The reason I say this is because the jobs being outsourced should not be looked at creating employment in cheaper countries to cut costs but creating a global market for busineses in the US.Every job outsourced in fact creates opportunities at home as a new set of customers with buying power emerge.iPhones and iPods are a few examples which can create ample well paying jobs at home and the emerging economies are no way capable of competing in this space.
So is US going to take a direction isolating the emerging economies due to various political reasons or will it try to establish its leadership accepting globalisation.
Sounds like your book addresses population. Why isnt the world's need for population control much more central to the green movement's message and policy wish list all around the world? Too sensitive a topic?
The idea of "God and Guns" is something doesn't seem to be an abstract concept these days. In your opinion, what would be the outcome of globalized capitalistic economics if religion where to disappear? Would laissez-faire capitalism, which many might find cruel, be more of a reality? Is it possible the concept of God is what keeps capitalism from reaching an out of control extreme?
Hi Tom,
With developing countries having higher priorities to invest funds in their social sectors, what incentives should be provided to these countries to invest in the green sector?
Thanks! Vikas
Do you think keep pouring money to Africa is proved to be a failed policy to help the people out there?
What kind of car do you drive in this new age of hybrid cars? You have to practice what your preach!
Y'know many country abuse China's environment problems, however, in ur last book, the world is flat, u mentioned that in that flat world all country will reconsider their parts.
I believe that the part of China determined her form of industry in the globalized world; I mean because of this part, most of industries in China are in the end of chain, needing more energy and destroying environment.
What do u think in that new book what is China's part in that global green revolution.
In your opinion, is there any possibility that the world can really overcome the environmental crisis?
For more than thirty years well respected scientists have been pointing out to the world that human beings are having a direct impact on changing the climate on our planet. Still there are people who refute the evidence, ignore the images, and act as though we should move forward with business as usual. What can we do to combat this ignorance?
For those of us who have read "The World Is Flat" and have become REALLY concerned with the conclusions drawn, what follow up reading(s) would you suggest that would bring me up to date on the many areas addressed in your book?
Obama or McCain as the greenest president?
Who is your favourite writer and why?
My country does not have good environemental policy so the initiative is left to its citizen, I practice recycling and energy conservation, but me alone can save the dying world?
When you're not wiritng how you relax?
Do you own a pet? If yes, how you manage them given your hectic schedule?
Tom, What is your view on 'compassionate capitalism' & the impact this idea will have on the world's poor ?
Do you think your reporting is before or after the curve on hot button topics?
In your columns, you once gave an optimistic view of the Iraq conflict, saying that there was still a possibility of a positive conclusion to the Iraq war. What is your opinion to the current events in Iraq? With the coming elections closing in, what do you think should be the main priority in international affairs for the next president of the US?
Tom,
Now that the world is flattening, how long will it be before third world countries can cause it to be "flat and downhill"? Have you explored the hunger crisis at all while researching your books?
Do you support biofuels, like ethanol, or do you feel that they are a waste of crop-space?
Do you feel that after the success of your book The World is Flat, your next one, Hot, Flat, and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution--and How It Can Renew America, is coming out to unreasonable high expectations (either your own or those of the public)?
As a writer for the New York Times, is bias in the press a truth or misconception?
Mass production, mass consumption and more buying power seem to be the bedrock ( and in some ways, the goal ) of a capitalist economy like US. A sustainable, environment friendly lifestyle, on the other hand, seems to require consuming less and using minimal resources for producing material goods. So my question is, how can a capitalist economy survive if everyone chooses a sustainable lifestyle ?
Hi..Tommiiieee..
..Where have you been and what are you doing, when terrorists hi-jack planes was stuck WTC,Pentagon and in the field of Penn State..It's interest to know, when people are telling you where they are and what they are doing when that happened..Like the Gen. hard ass Lemay's and others like him was telling, where they were when Pearl harbor was bomb and USA's was enter to the WW2, and throw more gas to the flame..They said power of balance mean, when three kids in school, one kid is fight to the another kid, the other kid is help to the looser one..That way nobody start the fight..The leader are human and human made a mistake, Hitler was accepting he will fight UK,USSR and USA's at same time..That was start by WW1, unkind of winner to the German..After WW2 USA's change the rule and now they can't blame for USA..Now they are rich then USA's
..After the WW2 USA's is helping to rebuilt the Germany, given them money and all the help they want..And some top notch brains are saying that, the WW2 is helping to the USA's to super power because all kind of the top smart brains are coming to the USA's for safe haven, instead of UK..The UK was best in the business before WW2, center of the great inventions and discovery of the great innovations..USA's was nearly on the farmers and lowly factory workers..Only depression and repression state was, order of the day in the big pictures of USA's..Now they said, we are going that way and is time to correct the wrong direction to the right direction..Is that what you are saying?? It's so I will keep my eyes on you..I hope our country will back to the super power to change the great power, that what they are saying about..Given me all your points and counterpoints and I will do the rest..
In an ideal resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict, what degree of autonomy do you believe the Palestinians should be entitled to?
Hello Mr. Freidman:
I've had the pleasure to follow your thoughts and ideas including impressive thought provoking intrview with Mr. Rose,
since I am certain our government preimary disire is our country's prosperity I would like to ask your opinion about why do you think our government wouldn't want our progress toward green enrgy?
I appreciate your service to our nation
MG
Hi webmaster!
Nearly 600 higher education institutions have signed the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, a voluntary effort to reach climate neutrality and incoporate sustainability into the curriculum. In what ways might this significant action--promoted and undertaken in part by students--be leveraged to support the green revolution?
What would you think about the U.S. spearheading the formation of a new organization called OPIC (Organization of petroleum importing countries)
Member countries would accept sealed bids from exporters who will then be forced to price oil closer to the actual cost of production rather than the outrageous, monopoly driven rates we've seen..
And ,as a bonus extra, look what it would do to improve our problems wirh Iran, Russia and Venezuela.
Do you think this economic situation is going to be the catalyst in creating a new economic structure based on renewable energy?
My spouse and i love your clarity of thoughts in the written and spoken
word,especially when you are talking about specific issues like the iraq war, diplomacy issues in the middle east, Israel, the Bush presidency and his legacy,and the list goes on and on. In terms of the big picture the world is truly flat as you so adroitly proclaim in your book. truly the ramifications of our domestic and international actions have a rippling cause& effect on the global scene. My question for you is one of informational in nature. We live in the New Haven,Ct. area. thus my question for you is,When will you be in this area to give a speech or lecture? jeffrey f. mcclosky
On "This Week" you made mention that shortly before the Soviet Union's collapse, oil prices started to "tumble" but you were interrupted and you never finished your thought. Were you inferring that current trends in oil prices may be "telegraphing" the fall of another "superpower"?
Do you know what Senator John McCain's and Governor Sarah Palin's Email addresses are? If the answer is yes could you Please send them to me by rerurn email?
Thank You!!!!!
Mr. Friedman,
How do you think Ayn Rand would respond to your new book?
To Tom Friedman--11/13/08
Your Times article and MSNBC tonite 11/13/08 is representative of how you live in a biased "bubble" swinging with the times and offerring a lot of monday morning quarterbacking.
You blame the big 3 , UAW and Michigan politicians for the US auto industry predictament.
Do you think our --and YOUR standard of living would be what it is today if not for the efforts of the UAW and big 3 over the last half of the 20th century. You and all of MSNBC reap the benefits --then criticize. I don't think your salary and benefits would be what it is today--and your book sales owuld be nil. Of course your knowledge is limited about this because you were only a baby in 1950 or 1960.
Fire top management in the BIg 3--and have the companies run by a special master.. Are you serious? Fire Bill Ford or Alan Mullally who has only been on the job 2 years.
The big 3 have plenty of efficient small cars,. Focus, Fusion, Escape--but who's buying anything now? Toyota sales last month were also down 30%.. And with regard to hourly wage rates, the last UAW contract includes new hires being hired at about 1/2 the rate of existing workers and in 2010 a shift of health care cost to the UAW.
Get real and remove yourself from your biased "bubble
40 year salaried Ford retiree
Can nothing be done to hinder the spread of militant Islamic preaching by "friends" such as Saudi Arabia?