Why are we still there?
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I think Eisenhower addressed that in his farewell address. Recall his admonitions about “misplaced power” and the military industrial complex.
As a % of national output, military spending is down 50% from Eisenhower's time. The civilian spending has doubled. There's a private sector-government cabal, but it's not in defense.
The real reason we're there? Genocide is not an option, but standing aside as future 9/11's are plotted in Afghanistan is not an option either.
Not really.
MIC was something he recognized and respected and acknowledged as a need. He cautioned politico’s and The People to make good use because the days of changing from making washing-machines to war machines overnight was no more.
His real admonishment was directed at academia.
(I’ve read his notes and drafts and they provide true insight about what his thoughts truly were. He was not hostile to the defense industry).