Post: #1

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worl...unethical/

Quote:American basketball star Dennis Rodman and several members of the Harlem Globetrotters are in North Korea, where they will film for a forthcoming Vice/HBO program and promote some “basketball diplomacy,” including pick-up games in Pyongyang.

Whatever the trip’s impact, it reminds me of a debate that I’ve heard many times among people who work on issues relating to North Korea: What are the ethical pros and cons of visiting the world’s most oppressive country? Although there is no consensus view and a significant numer of North Korea-watchers say that visiting the country helps to open it up, I most frequently hear experts argue that tourism is unethical because it directly funds and offers free propaganda to the regime.

Post: #2

The Globetrotters have always been about bringing joy and fun, and have always been seen as ambassadors in some way, shape or form. However, with Rodman added to the mix, this isn't about diplomacy. In a place like North Korea, nothing is accomplished politically or diplomatically. Famous American artists and students have been going to Cuba for years (not comparing Cuba and North Korea, but...) and nothing has changed there either. This Rodman trip is all about making and selling a documentary - nothing more. It isn't the worst thing, nor is it to be commended.

Post: #3

Well because of his presentation he never made the hall of fame. Maybe he's trying to turn it around.

Post: #4

(03-02-2013 11:40 AM)elabayarde Wrote:  Well because of his presentation he never made the hall of fame. Maybe he's trying to turn it around.

Actually, Dennis IS in the HOF. He had one of the great, honest induction speeches also.

Post: #5

I read Rodman's statements the other day about the Kim's being great leaders. Makes me sick. Rodman is a nobody back home, maybe he should make a life for himself in N. Korea where he continue dining on sushi and beer with heads of the parties while the people are eating grass.

Post: #6

(03-02-2013 01:12 PM)Timoteo Wrote:  

(03-02-2013 11:40 AM)elabayarde Wrote:  Well because of his presentation he never made the hall of fame. Maybe he's trying to turn it around.

Actually, Dennis IS in the HOF. He had one of the great, honest induction speeches also.

DAMN!!! Dont I feel like a dumb ass!! LOL
I was WROOONGG!!!

Post: #7

I bet North Korea has a damn good basketball team. I've seen those little north Korean kids play the violin like Vivaldi. They probably have a team of Spud Webbs

Post: #8

(03-02-2013 02:16 PM)speakeasy Wrote:  I read Rodman's statements the other day about the Kim's being great leaders. Makes me sick. Rodman is a nobody back home, maybe he should make a life for himself in N. Korea where he continue dining on sushi and beer with heads of the parties while the people are eating grass.

I think it's ridiculous that the media (or anyone) is trying to hold Rodman's feet to the fire over this trip. I saw the clip of his sit-down with George Stephanopoulos, and it was comical. He was talking to Rodman like he was a politician or journalist, grilling him about whether or not he confronted Kim about his regime. Rodman is who he is. Why would anyone expect him to have some kind of deep understanding about world politics, or behave as if he were there in some form of official capacity. I'm not disgusted or offended by anything Rodman said, because it's Dennis Rodman.

Post: #9

The full episode is out.





It doesn't answer the burning question that was on everyone's mind- did Rodman get his North Korean flag?

Post: #10

That was amazing television!

Michael Jordan changed the world.

Dennis and Scottie were amazing athletes also -- But, this happened because of the power of Michael!

Props to Coach Jackson also.

What a life! From the projects of Dallas, Texas to the top of the world. Dennis has seen it all. Amazing story.

North Korea is the most interesting/strange/sad place in the history of mankind. Literally a state that became a cult. Fascinating.

Post: #11

North Korea, the new travel hotspot? It could be a potential travel destination for swooping in the near future.