David's Medienkritik, the excellent review of European journalism, presents both public opinion polling data and journalistic reactions to Saddam's hanging. Somewhat surprisingly, most countries had small majorities favoring the execution of the mass murderer. One exception was Italy, whose own dictator was hung by his heels after World War II, where only 46% supported the death penalty Saddam. Closest to the United States' overwhelming support was the UK, where 69% supported it. Even France had 58% in support.Among mass media, the verdict was overwhelmingly negative. As David Kaspar aptly points out, the Euro-media are trying to create a wedge issue with the US, pretending that the gap in perceptions on the death penalty is a bloack and white issue. He also supplies invaluable context.There is a lively debate on the death penalty on both sides of the Atlantic, with significant numbers and powerful factions on either side. Unfortunately, many in the German media have made death...(Read Full Post)