Dear Mr. Beck: I Shook Hands with the Antichrist

Earlier this week, Michael Lind wrote an article for Salon about the misplaced energy in demeaning alarmists like Glenn Beck.1 Having friends and family who often revere the inflammatory rhetoric of Beck, Palin, Limbaugh, and others as a light in the darkness, the temptation to dwell on and ridicule these figures, ones that have even caused divisions between conservative commentators, is strong. Lind’s point is crucial though: the question is not primarily whether or not Beck’s theories are sane. Actually, the less sane they seem, the more likely it is that these theories are moves of desperation and the more important it is that we should stay focused on the actual issue.

First, however, a short recap of Beck’s theories: global unrest—from revolts in the Middle East to labor protests in Wisconsin—is the precursor to an international Caliphate (Islamic Rule). But on Friday, Beck’s alarms rang even louder; Code Pink, The Muslim Brotherhood, and other ideologically different groups are clearing the way not only for the Caliphate, but also for the “The Mahdi,” who is the prophesized Muslim redeemer. According to Beck, however, this figure is better known to Christians and End Times enthusiasts as “The Antichrist.”2

Does it bother me that Beck preys on his viewer’s fears and biases the way he does? Absolutely, but here is exactly where Lind’s cautions apply: “When progressive opinion leaders wait for conservatives to say something stupid and then pounce on it, they cede the choice of topics in national debate…”1

Sure, there are plenty of insults for Beck’s utilization of logic, study of history, and choice of “expert”3 sources that would apply to his performances. But simply slapping labels on Beck and his friends are a missed opportunity. Prepared for the insults, they’ll call it persecution, gain more sympathy from their followers and dig more entrenched battle lines.

http://www.readersupportednews.org/off-site-opinion-section/72-72/5057-dear-mr-beck-i-shook-hands-with-the-antichrist

been doing. No confrontation. "We do not do that" seems
to be the mantra. This has not worked.

Beck's lies and misinformation stands, likewise, Palin
Bachan and the whole kittenkaboodle just spread their
version of truth.

Youtube is full of atheists absolutely crushing theists and intellectual, well informed people completely destroying climate change deniers. In nearly all of the most highly rated videos, the side representing logic and fact succeed in making their opposition, fanatical and loud-mouthed, look completely foolish while simultaneously doing an effective job of informing the public as they are able (which is hundreds of thousands in many cases, see: "why people laugh at creationists" series).