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It happened. While there is always more to say about nearly everything, in terms of symbolic forces of rhetoric, in a receptive public forum broadcast over the internet, radio, and television, I just don't think there will be much more weighty a representation of pro-war and anti-war in Iraq than the debate between Christopher Hitchens and George Galloway. The question posed for formal debate was simple—was the Iraq War just and necessary? The passions, provocations, and reasoned arguments were laid bare. This is why we cherish democracy, to participate in debates such as this.

The situation is perfect, with an electrified hall and audience, the air is ripe, and the combatants educated and were in good form. The debate did veer at times to the personal instead the topical (inevitable to some extent) but in fact that was revealing as well. (The pluralist worldview is known for valuing such ad hominem investigations, it is worth noting.) But there was plenty of important points made entirely on topic. I was entralled.

I ought say that I fall squarely on Hitchens' angle on the war, for what it is worth. His is essentially a planet-centric pro-war angle. (Yes, a planet-centric anti-war angle is entirely possible, though Galloway did not make one, in my estimation.) And I have held my face to the fire of most of my friends and family on this issue for quite some time, and frankly I usually just keep my views private on this issue. My reasons for my position are a longer story, for another post.

To listen to the entire, riveting debate, click here. If you want to get right into the action, without the pre-debate commentary, then under 'Direct Links' click 'three', as in the third MP3 file.