People here are not used to hearing open criticism of their country or their rulers. The "Dark Side of Dubai" article really didn't spare anyone's feelings, to say the least.
That kind of disrespect beckons retaliation of some kind. Since Mr. Hari is safely out of reach in the UK, the only response is to openly dis the UK - even if it means dredging up stories from WWII.
Why does it beckon retaliation instead of correction? If it is because he is correct then retaliation would seem like something only the immature or stupid would engage in. More enlightened souls would either point out their already standing agreement or would learn.
By the way, I did not read this 'Dark Side of Dubai' article you mention and I have no idea therefore what was said in it.
> That kind of disrespect beckons retaliation of some kind.
Not for everyone it doesn't. It's highly dependent on culture, and it's personal too. When 37 signals criticized Get Satisfaction, Get Satisfaction replied with grace, and addressed the points raised by 37 Signals. Of course it wasn't perfect, but it certainly didn't fall in the camp of retaliation.
Yes, it's very cultural. I have observed first-hand how people here go ballistic at the slightest perceived slight.
This spirit of vengefulness has gotten worse as the city has mushroomed with foreigners who now outnumber locals 20 to 1, making them a small minority in their own city. Their culture and way of life are under attack, from their own leaders' ambitions.
That kind of disrespect beckons retaliation of some kind. Since Mr. Hari is safely out of reach in the UK, the only response is to openly dis the UK - even if it means dredging up stories from WWII.