Escalation

Blogger seems to be having a dizzy blond spell. It refused to let me load a image from the dashboard saying that technicians were working on it. I got the Escalation image through Picasa but that does not show up on dashboard so I can add the text.
So, this is what should go with the cartoon.
I think this is indicative of what happens when sensible people are confronted with reaction such as we have been seeing in respect of the Danish-originated cartoons. A first, we are prepared to laugh at the mobs and their unrealistic demands for the violent death of those involved. Then, as that gets worse or continues with little call for moderation from the reasonable Islamists, we lose our patience and sense of humour. Things get to the stage where people start to think "If they did not like that - look at this"
Where I find difficulty with the demonbstrators is the Rent-A-Mob attitude. There can be very few individuals amongst the violent crowd who have seen the original cartoons published in a small country in a obscure language. They have gone onto the streets - with their banners calling for death - on the words of a few people. The police have chosen to maintain a low profile but it is quite clear what would have happened had they tried to disperse the mobs. Mr Clark knows just how soon it could turn into another Grosvenor Square and doubtless has given the necessary 'play cool' orders.
What if - just if mind you - something happens in the days ahead where it suits those who control and mobilise the crowds we have seen to tell their hotheads that - just imagine - blue-eyed children are the spawn of The Devil and should be burned and thrown into the Thames? Over the top assumption you say? Who would have forecast what we now see following some not very funny drawings in a far away place.