Iraq: Roll Over, George Orwell
by Bob Burnett, former publisher of IN THESE TIMES

The Bush version of the Ministry of Truth is constantly in attack mode, ready to pillory anyone who disagrees with the Administration, to question a critic's sanity, patriotism, and manhood; it is commonplace for decorated veterans, such as Max Cleland and John Kerry to be ridiculed by the President and his advisers - none of whom have ever been in battle - and described as cowards, appeasers, or collaborators with Osama bin Laden.

It's not unique in American politics to disparage your opponent; dreadful mud slinging has been a characteristic of American Politics since our first elections. What is different about the Bush Administration is the discipline and coordination that characterize their negative campaigns, and their understanding of how to play to fear. Bushspeak works because those in charge of the Ministry of Truth are skilled and believe that their ends justify any means.

Full story here.