[knowtheory]

That's a dangerously short sighted POV.

The middle east holds a similar web of interconnected alliances and individual flash points that histories of WWI point out in Europe.

Reform and/or toppling of regimes in the middle east are certainly long over due, but uncontrolled destabilization is an incredibly risky and dangerous proposition, and nations like Iran are an example of what can result.

One can hardly claim that that would be an outcome resulting in improved conditions for Egyptians.

[michaelchisari]

Supporting brutal dictatorships due to a cynical realpolitik in favor of regional stability over human rights is the very definition of short-sightedness. That's been the case throughout modern history.

[knowtheory]

I don't advocate the false dichotomy you're trying to pin on me. Please don't put words in my mouth.

Both povs are short sighted. I do not favor either support for brutal dictatorships, or the rabid furor that Mubarak opponents have begun to spout (either out of a loathing for Mubarak, or a loathing of the US).

But people who support the collapse of the Mubarak regime without an acknowledgment and understanding that there are factors like the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt are like the Neo-cons supporting GWBs push into Iraq w/o a plan for setting up credible institutions, and defusing tensions after the immediate conflagration.

Mark my words, there will be even more suffering and political upheaval in the power vacuum after Mubarak.