torch relay spotlights civil disobedience on a global scale

I have been thrilled to see the continued, sustained protest during the the Olympic torch relay. The torch's progress around the globe has turned out to be a public-relations nightmare for China and the IOC, and a boon for civil disobedience.

In London, the torch was hit with a fire extinguisher. In Paris, the runners gave up, doused the flame and boarded a bus. Protesters in San Francisco used their magnificent bridge to put on a show. (Some photos here.) In England, the torch protests had the support of two high-profile athletes, something I really admire.

The mainstream media has latched onto this, and China can't make it disappear. Curmudgeons and authoritarians everywhere are wringing their hands, but the people are being heard. Every successful protest gives future protesters more courage. It's exciting.