The Common Good
November-December 2001

Curbed Enthusiasm

by Michael Fanning | November-December 2001

Having lived in Israel for a number of years studying for my Ph.D., Jim
Wallis' characterization of the conflict was full of presuppositions and biases (

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Having lived in Israel for a number of years studying for my Ph.D., Jim Wallis' characterization of the conflict was full of presuppositions and biases ("Against Impossible Odds," September-October 2001). In fact, your one-sided, biased article against Israel could have been written prior to your visit to Israel. It was obvious that you had an agenda prior to traveling there and that you had decided to cast your lot with the Palestinians, regardless of the reality of the situation on the ground. That is too bad, and it was a sad revelation to me. Your article makes me wonder what other bias and half-reporting constitute your basic belief system. I can share your concern for the oppressed and poor in our society, but to try to apply these principles in an uncritical fashion, especially in the Middle Eastern context, exhibits ignorance of the highest degree. Needless to say, I was disappointed in your report and will temper my enthusiasm for your endeavors in the future.

Michael Fanning
San Antonio, Texas

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