Much of this section is arguably too pessimistic. It's based on my own experience of the country and some limited reading of history, which the reader may wish to see summarised.
I worked in Afghanistan from July to December 1997 and part of the Spring of 1998. The impression I got of the Taliban was that they were a bit like chemo-therapy: horrible, but better than the alternative. Little as I approved of their system of government, I thought it a mistake to bracket them with international terrorists.
At present it looks like this question is only of historical interest. But remember: it was 1839 when Britain placed our choice of monarch on the Afghan throne, and three years elapsed in which red-coated subalterns played polo on the Maidan in the refreshing Summer climate of newly fashionable Kabul. It was not until 1842 that the entire garrison was slaughtered in the passes of the Kabul river and the hills above Gandomak. It ain't over 'til it's over.
In any event, even if, which I hope, the Taliban are history, it's important the history should be true. I'd love to hear from anyone who disagrees with my views on them.