Fact Check: Alexander Cockburn said that Afghanistan “deserved rape”

Fact Check: "Alexander Cockburn said that Afghanistan 'deserved rape'"

What We Know

The claim that Alexander Cockburn stated Afghanistan "deserved rape" originates from his commentary following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. In his writings, Cockburn expressed a strong contempt for the country and its people, stating, "if ever a country deserved rape it’s Afghanistan" (source-1). This phrase has been cited in various articles and reviews, including a review of his posthumous book A Colossal Wreck, where the quote is mentioned in the context of Cockburn's broader criticisms of imperialism and his controversial views on various subjects (source-2).

Cockburn's commentary reflects his disdain for the socio-political conditions in Afghanistan at the time, which he described using derogatory language. He characterized the Afghan people as "barbarous ethnics" with "views as medieval as their muskets" (source-3). This statement has been referenced in multiple obituaries and critiques of his work, highlighting the polarizing nature of his journalism (source-4).

Analysis

The reliability of the sources confirming Cockburn's statement is strong, as they include reputable publications and critical reviews of his work. The quote is consistently presented in the context of Cockburn's broader critique of imperialism and his controversial views on various geopolitical issues. For instance, the Wall Street Journal noted his comment shortly after the Soviet invasion, framing it within the context of Cockburn's support for Soviet actions in Afghanistan (source-5).

However, it is important to note that Cockburn's writings often employed hyperbolic language and were intended to provoke thought and discussion, albeit sometimes at the cost of sensitivity. His use of the term "deserved rape" has been criticized as tasteless and indicative of a broader disdain for the Afghan populace (source-6). Critics argue that such statements reflect a lack of empathy and an oversimplification of complex geopolitical issues.

While Cockburn's work was influential and he was recognized for his contrarian views, his statements often drew ire for their insensitivity and perceived racism. The context of his comment is crucial; it was made during a time of significant turmoil in Afghanistan, and his choice of words has been interpreted as both a critique of the situation and a reflection of his personal biases (source-7).

Conclusion

The claim that Alexander Cockburn said Afghanistan "deserved rape" is True. The evidence is well-documented, with multiple credible sources confirming the statement and providing context for its controversial nature. Cockburn's provocative language and views on Afghanistan have been consistently cited in discussions of his work, illustrating both his impact on journalism and the contentious nature of his opinions.

Fact Check: Alexander Cockburn said that Afghanistan “deserved rape”