Jacobs on Freeman

I think Alan Jacobs gets at the heart of the Chas Freeman question in a characteristically smart post over at the Scene:

2) Freeman and his supporters insist that in his now-notorious comments about the Tiennanmen Square crackdown that he was simply describing the Chinese government’s views, not offering his own. But the text clearly shows that after he described the government position, he went on to give his own: “For myself, I side on this — if not on numerous other issues — with Gen. Douglas MacArthur. I do not believe it is acceptable for any country to allow the heart of its national capital to be occupied by dissidents intent on disrupting the normal functions of government, however appealing to foreigners their propaganda may be.” Italics mine, because the words “for myself” are rather straightforward, aren’t they?

I’m not saying that Freeman didn’t, on the merits of his knowledge and insight, deserve the job he was offered. But he needed to answer, clearly and unambiguously, the questions I’ve just asked. Maybe he has and I haven’t seen it. All I see, in the resignation message quoted above, is the angry shouting of Israel Lobby! Israel Lobby! And that’s not good enough.

I mean, look: if you think the Chinese went too easy on the Tienanmen protesters, that’s your right. It’s a sick stand to take, but hey, this is a free country. You should realize that you have to defend that position, though! Don’t just blame the Jews for getting you blackballed.