Global Voices has an interesting collection of reactions to Azerbaijan's proposed hotel project, which is apparently part of their bid for the 2016 Olympics. While I have to admit I know nothing about Azerbaijan, my western stereotypes and biases tend to make me a little fearful for the success of a project like this, because of the pervasive instability in the region. I can also admit that the comparisons to the Death Star are valid, but perhaps not fair. This would certainly be an architectural marvel, and the more appropriate allusion, despite its name (the Full Moon Hotel), seems to be the cresent moon and star, which are representative of both the population and the nation (see the Azerbaijan flag). While I'm sure an Olympics in Chicago would be great, an Olympics in Central Asia could be much more meaningful and significant in making the Olympics relevant as a symbol of peace and world community again, rather than commercialism and bragging rights. I think that's why the popularity of the Olympics is waning--because people see through it now. It's not all about hope and brotherhood any more, no matter how many times you play Chariots of Fire. Perhaps if the IOC acted as boldly as the hotel's architechs, we could have some of that old community back. We'll see.