The Arrogance of Ignorance. – By James Fallows
7 hours ago
- #diplomacy
- #warfare
- #strategy
- The author reflects on 45 years of interviewing experts about peace and war, applying lessons to recent events.
- Key insights include the importance of strategic foresight and adaptability in warfare, distinguishing victors from the defeated.
- The concept of 'quantity vs quality' in warfare is highlighted, with examples from Vietnam and modern drone warfare.
- The author's 2002 articles warned against the Iraq War unless fully prepared for long-term consequences, emphasizing the need to exhaust all other options first.
- A 2004 war game scenario about Iran concluded that military solutions are ineffective, and diplomacy is essential.
- A 2015 article criticized the ease with which political leaders commit to wars without public accountability, quoting Admiral Mike Mullen on the need for public engagement in war decisions.
- Five critical questions and sayings about war and peace are presented, emphasizing the importance of asking 'How does this end?' before committing to military actions.
- The author views recent events as among the most self-destructive for the U.S., worse than past tragedies because current leaders have ignored hard-earned lessons.