Too often in the past, U.S. leaders have forced Israel to pay the price for American strategic interests in the Middle East - through concessions in the peace process as well as passivity in the face of Iraqi attacks.
Artists speak the truth to the public without fear of retribution or damage to their careers.
Involvement in public affairs is a legitimate use of celebrity.
In Europe, people in the arts are considered part of the intelligentsia; they are considered part of the elite.
