CB:  "Look, the point here is that we are looking at the larger scale aspects of "systems", and trying to determine their net effect in terms of real democracy and freedom from corruption."

First things first, stop telling others what "the point is here", thats only a matter of your opinion and one in which is not always clear in your case given your constant shifting of the grounds.  Most people left of centre have a clear idea that it isn't Islamic authoritarianism versus Liberal Democracy, for the simple reason that most everyone knows we no longer live in a Liberal Democracy.  It has become significantly less on both counts since the neo-cons manipulated their way to power, and of course was always less than perfect.  Most do however recognise that Iran may still be significantly worse most ways, and certaintly not any alternative that anyone here would prefer to live under.   Its nice to see you basically admit that you think that you are defending their "system", even if you will of course try to deny it and obfuscate. 

CB:

"So when I say something like that, its a "ploy to divert attention" but when Zizek says something like that its fair criticism. Hah! Now there is this bit about "foreign manipulation"."

Huh?  Something like what?  Didn't I just tell you that my quoting this wasn't necessarily in agreement with everything he said but only to showe some difference of opinion on the subject on the militant left?  Why yes, yes I did.  Now perhaps if you were more clear on just which passage I was supposed to be in contradiction of and with who I can better understand why you trying to turn this too around on me, other than your usual childish need to one up the other. 

It should have been obvious that I was looking to disengage on that post, in fact I said so quite plainly, but since you seem to want to raise more isues with me I'll promise you I get back to you soon on this whole subject, as you so obviously want to do, but first I'd rather engage with others and read a few less contentious threads.  But in answer to you other I will say that yes, yes you Are supporting dictatorial regimes,as you have done quite persistently over the years, what your AIm is for doing so may not necessaily be a love of dictorial regime itself and I seriously doubt youd prefer to live there yourself, but that is in effect what you are doing yes.  I hope that helps at least a bit.