WHALE WIMPS

I have been watching Whale Wars sporadically. The gist of the show is that the Japanese continue to hunt and kill whales in the ocean surrounding Antarctica. The Japanese claim that this is valid research under the rules established by the International Whaling Commission. I have no idea whether the Japanese interpretation is reasonable.

Anyway, the crew of the Steve Irwin (formerly the Sea Shepherd) chases the Japanese boats around and throws bottles of butyric acid on the decks of the Japanese boats. They also harass the Japanese ships, including in at least one case rubbing (ramming?) a Japanese ship at sea. They are all very earnest, and all talk about being willing to give their lives to protect whales. Why? I don't know, but I can almost respect their dedication. I can't agree that any human is worth less than any whale life. Of course, that's why I am not out there.

Anyway, why whale wimps? Because you listen to the crew talk about being willing to die. You listen to them revel in endangering the Japanese and themselves at sea. You listen to them talk about being unpredictable and freightening the Japanese. Then, when the Japanese bring in more ships and buzz the Steve Irwin, the crew gets all indignant. "The Japanese are being aggressive." "The Japanese are changing the rules of engagement." Bitch bitch bitch.

If you are going to talk smack, and if you are going to act recklessly, understand if the Japanese are willing to play your game, and have better equipment to play with. Man up and do what you said you were going to do.