It just seems like a goal that is so vague and unrealistic and is not even remotely possible, even if you could come up with agreement on what it means. What kind of "evil" is he talking about eliminating-- State-sponsored evil? Evil that couples do to each other? Evil that results in murder? I don't think you can "defeat" any of these. any more than you can "defeat" hate, or prejudice, dishonesty, theft, or any other ill in society. As for McCain coming off better in the discussion, supposedly he heard some of Obama's questioning by the pastor and so knew some of the questions that would be asked (Obama went first, and then McCain; both were asked the same questions.)

I do not believe you read the article Idlewild what you mentioned is not what this article is about. The emotional non substance type of answers to a question is. Guess who was giving those types of answers.... Have you read Eggsovresy's latest? Is Obama for or against controlling conservative talk show radio? Want to see Obama sing and dance? Eggsovresy

Does anyone seriously believe that a U.S. president, or any one person or government, can actually "defeat" evil? That's the kind of absurdly unrealistic promise that makes people so skeptical of politicians. Confronting evil sounds to me like something that is actually much more realistic and do-able. While MCain is at it, why doesn't he promise to no only "defeat evil" but also cure cancer, put a chicken in every pot, and make everyone rich, LOL...