Well, it has been a long time since I posted. And now, I do it mostly to draw your attention to a particular article on the BBC website:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/from_our_own_correspondent/7297139.stm

Now, you don't have to agree with all of it. Or any of it. Nor do you have to disagree with all or any of it. However, I would recommend reading it, thinking about it, picking an argument with some part of it (always a good tool for deciding your view) and, in short, finding yourself a viewpoint, a sophisticated, multifaceted (it will have to be because that is what the world is like. But don't worry. You really are up to it!) opinion about this issue.
Does this sound like homework?
It needn't be. Everyone loves to talk about themselves. So once you're done formulating, go and find someone to bail up! Air those newly found and clearly incontrovertible ideals! It'll be fun!
It'll all be fun!
Go on!
And have a lovely day.
Bec