Focusing anger on neighbors dangerous
Since the horrific events of Sept. 11, the media have been replete with condemnation of the terrorists and of Osama bin Laden in particular. Meanwhile, government leaders state clearly that this is not a war against Islam and the nation is not engaged in any form of racial profiling. Just as quickly, news reports and government leaders have been showing images of the terrorists and exclaiming that many 'active cells' are still scattered throughout the United States. Simultaneously, detentions and questioning have become the norm for an increasing number of select individuals. These events, widely articulated by the media and coming just days after the unanticipated horror, could hardly be seen as calming. Many Americans, emerging from the shock of the events and desperately in need of targets on whom to vent their anger, have been provided a needed focal point.