Distinct groups with parallel historical experiences have difficulty empathising with each other and, more so, with cultural differences.This should remind us of the poverty in our souls.

The idea that one man's freedom fighter is another's terrorist is quite another matter. This cynically implies that there is no cause worth fighting for and posits moral equivalence between aggressors and defenders. An inspection in detail of any actual conflict rarely vindicates this common platitude which is only heard - it should be noted - in the media and the university, where truth is inconsequential.

You mention Howard Fast's book without comment on its substance. Like most "väliseestlased", I've never understood what turns a person to communism and the reading that I've done hasn't provided a satisfactory answer. If you've discovered something worthwhile, here, I'd be grateful to be alerted to it.

P.S. It's nice to see you after a lull.

I did a review of Fast's book quite some time ago. If you can't find it using a search engine I can email you a copy of what I sent to the paper or you can contact them. I really have no particular insight into why communism held such a special attraction to so many so called intellectuals. Just got back from the fatherland and one of my relatives still believes in it so go figure!