Bras, Whips, Women & Human Rights?

This commentary article published by Britain's Independent newspaper, October 28, 2009 should draw some discussion!

Challenge yourself with this article - move beyond a statement of acceptance or disapproval of what is taking place. Rather, try to analyse the mechanics of the article and how the reactions you're meant to experience are created. Did the article succeed in stirring a reaction? how was this achieived?

For students who were in the Ancient Civ. class last year, you'll no doubt remember the authors Von Daniken & Otto Muck; is this author, Alaa Al-Aswany, employing some of the same techniques? Explain.

For students who were not in the Ancient Civ. course last year, what do you observe about the relationship between Alaa Al-Aswany's evidence and argument? How does this achieve the desired effect within the reader?

Alternatively, you could consider the consequences this article has on Canada's relationship with the countries mentioned in the report. What should the government of Canada state is our formal policy towards such practices? Should private Canadian companies do business in countries which engage in such practices? Should what happens in other countries be of any concern to Canadians, or should we mind our own business?

I'm interested to read your responses...