A lowpoint in modern European history today. My condolences go out to the people of Spain and the victims of today’s barbarity.

Here’s hoping that today’s massacre in Madrid will not come to define the age we live in. The pessimist in me fears that things will continue to get worse, so long as more and more disgruntled idiots turn to violence to advance their cause. Just a few decades ago, it took an organized army backed by nation-states to wreak havoc on the foundations of civilization. Today, just a few bombs and a small gang of imbeciles is enough. And unfortunately, there’s no shortage of either bombs or idiots. And city walls are no longer enough to keep the barbarians out..

Here are some relevant links:

Up-to-date blogging from Spain

Reactions to the blasts on BBC

Pictures and overview at El Mundo (Click on “comenzar” to begin)