I often disagree with Sally Jenkins, especially her apologetic columns about PED users, but I think she got this one right on.
I think, in hindsight, the IOC made a mistake giving the Games to Beijing. At a minimum, the controversy surrounding Tibet and China's suppression of dissent in general is going to detract from focusing on the athletes. Whether people think the Olympics and politics should be kept separate, the debate itself is a distraction.
I think the Olympics, regardless of what they should ideally be, have a political component that can't be wished away. Beijing is certainly using the Games in a political way, while cynically claiming otherwise.
A boycott would be counterproductive at this point, and unfair to athletes. But the IOC should wise up next time.
Anyway, a good read.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/17/AR2008041704414.html