So, what is art?

The Israeli diplomat to Sweden was touring an art museum when he saw a display he didn't like, so he tried to destroy it. (In the linked site, there actually is a little picture of the exhibit, first one I was able to find!)

Before we say anything else, we have the remember that this was a really stupid move by any diplomat representing any country. If something bothers you, you give a strongly worded letter of protest, you don't launch a physical attack. If a transgression requires a physical correction of some sort, you get the intelligence agencies of your nation to handle it.

However, the bigger question remains to be answered, what should our response be to an "art" exhibit that glorifies suicide bombings?

The answer, of course, is public ridicule. Shame the museum into withdrawing the exhibit. Criticize the author in public and explain why his vision of the middle east is hopelessly warped. Use the display as a reminder to the international community of why Israel must continue to protect itself, since the enemies are so willing to glorify violence.

However, all that said, the exhibit was put on display by the museum, and the museum has the right to house that display if it so chooses. The cardinal rule of civilized society is that when you disagree with someone, you act against them verbally, not physically.

When the diplomat decided to assault the artistic display, he was using all the finesse of a 3rd world strongman. He should be fired, and Israel should apologize for actions, saying that while the exhibit is insulting and inappropriate, the Israeli diplomat had no business engaging in some vigilante art justice.