I think targetting Muhammad in a political cartoon is distasteful and unwelcome. I have seen similar cartoons target Jesus, God, and a whole slew of religious figures. Still, it is the hallmark of any democracy that it must countenance distasteful, unwelcome, or even destructive speech for fear of rendering meaningless the very idea that speech is free. I'm sad the other thread was closed. The debate was sharp and tempers ran high, but it was generally well argued on all sides. If the other thread is unlocked, then let this one sink. In the meantime, I was reading the other thread and I'd like to see the debate continue. Hopefully, with less hostility and rancor.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11097877/
The following comment should frighten anyone who believes in democracy.