A History of Realism in the Middle East

Realism is a theory of international relations that holds that nations will always operate in their own self interest. The application of this theory by the United States in recent history has been to prop up brutal dictatorships (see all of South America) and provide military aid to groups who are likely to turn around and attack us later (see the Taliban and Iraq). Clearly, this whole plan has worked out great for us!

On last night's Daily Show, Jon Stewart gave a rundown on just how convoluted the political situation is in the Middle East. In case you were unaware, its pretty f'd up.