Cogs can think.

I just saw Vladimir Poetin, President of the Russian Federation, in his yearly questionnaire, where he takes a few hours to answer questions from ordinary Russians. Putting aside the fact that this is probably orchestrated by the state, one concern from many Russians near the border with North Korea was quite interesting. Obviously, they were concerned about North Korea’s nuclear abilities.

Poetin responded in a very wise manner: he said that it is simply not a good idea to make threats and try to corner a country with nuclear capabilities; in Dutch, we have a saying that says when you corner a cat, it’ll make unpredictable jumps. Very, very wise words from Poetin.

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I actually have some weird form of admiration for Poetin. Not because of his government and his actions against the free press in Russia, but more an admiration for his charisma, his stone-cold KGB stare, and his clothing. He has this air of total control, and I like that in a political leader. I think Russia is actually better of with a strong, powerful leader than with a weak one, but obviously Poetin is taking it a few steps too far; you can be strong and powerful also without silencing the free press.

When one of the ordinary Russians asked him what would become of Russia after Poetin resigns in early 2008, Poetin said he’d still influence the government and the country’s direction in a major way.

Got to love them democratic dictators…