OK 94220, this is a classic argument between "Idealists" and "realists". Idealists have romantic visions of the world, and believe everyone can be equal, everybody can be happy living together, and resources can be plentiful for every man woman and child. They can afford to think this way because in the modern western world, they have been insulated from the harsh realities of survival by the amazing civilization our forefathers have created. However, realists view the world for what it actually is. They don't delude themselves with romantic ideals and visions. The fact is, resources are scarce, and human nature is violent and selfish, and the civilization we have built up is VERY delicate and could come tumbling down like a house of cards VERY QUICKLY. Realists take these facts and try to do the best they can with them. Intelligent people will decide how to allocate these scarce resources for the benefit of those to whom the resources belong. In Europe, after the devastating world war 2, the United States decided to spend untold billions rebuilding the entire European economy. This was called the Marshall plan. Do you think the average American sacrficed a significant amount of their wealth to a bunch of Europeans out of the kindness of their hearts? Billions given for free to a people who constantly fought and slaughtered each other??? No, it was because it was deemed by some very intelligent people that a stable and prosperous Europe was good for the security of the United States in the long run. Iraq is a similar situation. A prosperous Iraq should lead to prosperity in the surrounding region. In order for prosperity to take place, a moderate, responsible government is a prerequisite. Once people in the region have hope for success, they will be less likely to blow themselves up all over the place. I see nothing wrong with believing in the concept of everyone acting in their own self interests resulting in a benefit for all involved. That is a concept articulated by the famous economist Adam Smith, and is the core concept behind free enterprise and it's success.