"In saying that, Bill D, you are comparing them, and on the basis of that comparison indicate that you think there are very significant differences. "

Interesting point you attempt to make.... *I* did not choose the language using Iran and Saudi Arabia as examples, but you are correct that I do think "there are very significant differences."

First, I refer you to my long post about various states, which you seem not to have noticed, noting that the polices in the US vary widely. Policies in Iran and Saudi Arabia are pretty monolithic and not subject to voting by the public....don't you think THAT is a 'significant difference'?

Second, a list 'proving' that the USA is one country that sometimes allows the death penalty is superfluous...that was not in question.

Third, there seems to be some doubt whether this is about me, the USA or the cardinal...or the point the cardinal was trying to make. *I* asserted that his point was a sweeping generalization, and went on to show how that did not accurately represent the US in general. Various folks here seem to wish to just insinuate that a couple of undisputed facts, plus a couple of assumptions based on personal or cultural values 'proves' some sort of moral superiority to the USA as a whole.

I stated that *I* am not defending the death penalty, and that many, many Americans...plus a number of states... wish to abolish it totally. I still fail to see why it seems so necessary to condemn an entire country in order to promote YOUR agreement to one Scottish cleric.

   There are many in the UK and Europe in general who do not 'seem' to appreciate how diverse the US is and what a huge issue 'states rights' is here...in capital punishment, in gun control, in voting procedures, in laws on alcohol, in highway laws and speed limits, in 'age of consent' and marriage laws...etc., etc.
   I see lots of complaints, but little attempt to understand what this fairy young attempt at a democratic republic is up against. I rather envy you 'some' of your long history and universal attitudes, but holding a position firmly and pointing fingers at others obligates no one to agree with all the details.


If I still have failed to insert the nuances I feel are necessary into the discussion, so be it.... I have tried.