Wednesday, November 7, 2007

In response to Severin...

McNamara states: "The fog of war is that war is so complex, beyond the capability of the human mind to comprehend and understand all the variables. Our judgement and understanding are not adequate, AND WE KILL PEOPLE."

I believe he is not simply stating that the war was complex and that there was confusion as to why we were there, but more importantly he was trying to convey that there are complex and necessary decisions that rest upon the shoulders of few individuals. Is there some sort of moral law that leaders should abide to? Ofcourse. But when it comes to protecting the interest of one's nation, a leader has to make decision that will affect many lives and stand by that decision. Sometimes it can be the right decision, other times it can prove to be a drastic mistake. I believe McNamara said a mistake can kill a nation.

Imagine if you had to bear that burden. How could you sleep at night? What would you do? How would you handle the criticism? There is no way of escaping the aftermath of your decision/indecision: lives will be lost no matter. Will you save a life by taking one?

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