I'm having a mixed response to your essay. Yes, we citizens of western countries can do a lot more to educate ourselves and others about genocide, and certainly, we should be more aware of what is happening right now, be looking for warning signs. It is hard to see the realities of these situations here in Australia, because our popular media is so narrow and commercial. I would like to see us all take more of an effort to be more informed, so we can properly respond.

But I think we need to realize that we do NOT have the power to stop these things, as in, we can't say that it's wrong and then just go in and stop it from happening. That is an elitest view, in my opinion. The groups involved are primarily responsible for what they are doing. I think a lot of western countries and people think that, if they were so inclined, they could save the world. If that were possible it would already be saved. And who's to say what 'saving' even is?

But I know that your essay is on American reactions, so my thoughts here arn't critisising anything you've said. I think it's a wonderful essay. I'm very glad to have learnt some more about Lemkin. Thanks for sharing it with us all- I can't tell you how nice it is to read organised thoughts for a change!