The fact that a blatantly corrupt (and even his supporters acknowledge his corruption), yet democratically elected ruler was toppled by protesters (er, by a coup, that is), and then found guilty of crimes by judges who wouldn’t dare to indict him during his iron-fisted rule, does not mean Thailand is run by mob-rule.

Furthermore, no other prime ministers were toppled in such a way. The courts and not the mobs removed the next elected prime minister, and Abhisit, although supported by a minority, was democratically installed by a parliament elected by the people. Please take your sophistry elsewhere, ND. Maybe you’ll be appreciated in Iran.

They’re Persians, not Arabs. Highly educated with quite ferocious debates in parliament.

Iran is considered the most democratic places in the Middle East.

But, as in Thailand, much cannot be done and much cannot be openly said. People have to lead double lives.

Iranian people seem to be clever enough to deal with this. When I traveled through the country I was welcomed by most hospitable people. Once people locked the doors of their houses quite a bit of moonshinging seemed to be the going on.

I was served home-made alcohol and the women and girls were wearing skirts and t-shirts.

Again, double lives.

As in Thailand.

Same same, but slightly different.