No logic in comparing suicide bombers to Columbia's crew

In regard to a passage I read in Caitlin Hall's Thursday column, I can only wonder how tainted her thoughts are by political jargon. "Though their aims were more noble and their deeds more righteous, the crew of the Columbia demonstrated no more bravery in its mission than a Palestinian suicide bomber who chooses to die in what he sees as defense of his homeland." I doubt bravery is even the real issue here, as she goes on to ramble about what she thinks space missions stand for. I see no logic in comparing the death of a crew who dedicated their lives to discovery for the good of our planet to individuals who are so desperate in their political and religious fervor that they feel it's necessary to mercilessly murder unsuspecting civilians, no matter from whose perspective you view their bravery. I have come to realize lately that any tragedy that occurs in this world is simply a means to an idealistic end for some people. Where is the humanity in that? [Read article]

Tuition increase should be moderate, across-the-board

As regents, student lobbyists and administrators hash out UA's next tuition increase, it is important to be conscious of the aim behind the hike. Students might be able to scrounge up 1,000 bucks extra either through loans or part-time work, but will see half of that increase go to financial aid for other students rather than their own educational benefit. [Read article]

"The best argument against democracy is a five-minute conversation with the average voter."
÷ Sir Winston Churchill

A five-minute conversation with the average University Arizona student doesn't speak much better for democracy. For many UA students, government classes end after high school. All too few students participate in political events on or near campus. Voter turnout is painfully low every year in the precinct that includes the UA dorms. For most students, especially science majors, political awareness and knowledge of government are minimal, and in some cases, nonexistent. [Read article]

While everybody is focusing their sights on Saddam Hussein and Iraq, another world figure that harbors terrorism is quietly staying in power. Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat remains at the helm, relishing the fact that the spotlight no longer is focused on him. It should be noted, however, that his days in power are numbered.

As soon as the situations in Iraq and North Korea are settled, the peace process in the Middle East will again take center stage, and as a result, Arafat will take his familiar position on the hot seat. [Read article]