Warning... uninformed opinion coming (w/ps)

When arrogance meets arrogance there's bound to be some dust flying.

The subject: Henry Gates' arrest in Cambridge.

First, I don't know diddly about what really went on there, although I have read the initial police report. I think only those who witnessed it know what really happened... but that's not going to keep me from talking about it.

To refresh your memory, Henry Gates is a Harvard professor and is very well known in most circles. You may have seen him on public tv or Oprah. He was arrested for disorderly conduct when police responded to a buglary-in-process call at his home.

It sounds like Gates was already pissed off about something and the arriving cop just gave him a target. I think he should have been thanking the officer for coming to make sure no one was breaking into his home, but instead he started raving about racial shit. He had just come back from a trip and was probably tired and irritated that his front door wouldn't open. And besides.... he's Mr. Gates, prominent professor. Everyone should know who he is by sight.

Then on the other hand there's a police officer who, as we all know, rule the streets and are mini gods. There are good and competent police officers but I think there are more of the jerk kind who let their uniform go to their heads.

Why did Gates not thank the cop for coming to check on things? Why did Gates not show his identification in the first place? I would want a cop to verify that I was the resident and not just take my word for it. Now in fairness, Gates did show his ID but not when first asked. Maybe Gates was itching for a fight... maybe his ego needed stroking. Who knows.

I think Gates acted inappropriately, especially for a Harvard professor and "pillar of the community", not that the officer didn't contribute to the situation as well. But it sounds like Gates went off the minute he saw the uniform.

If Gates is as smart as he's suppose to be, he'll let this thing fade away. If he doesn't then I guess you don't have to have common sense to be a Harvard professor.

PS, I wonder if Mr. Gates is diabetic. If his blood sugar was low, that would explain the reaction.