Sunday, February 06, 2005
On Chickenhawk Logic
The scuffle between Prof. Cole and Mr. Goldberg (scroll to 2nd to last paragraph) has, predictibly, degenerated in into the realm of chickenhawk logic. The defense against allegations of chickenhawkery are few (since the charge is so obviously true), but effective;namely that calling someone a chickenhawk is simply an ad hominem attack, a logical fallacy.
Well, having used this mode of "argumentation" before, I feel compelled to explain why the chickenhawk charge has real substance.
First, those who have served are more likely to know people still in the military, are far more able to understand the motives of people in the military, their wants and desires. Most importantly, they can empathize with those still on active duty or in the reserve. These Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines are not mere abstractions, but comrades. Those who have served are thus less likely to waste there lives, or even their time, sending them on missions that are not in the United States' vital interests.
Second, going through bootcamp, OCS etc. makes a person humble. Humility is a virtue these gas bags on the pro-war right sorely lacks.
Finally, having served, even in peace time or in 'peacekeeping' operations, is a great window into just how great the disparity is between the celestial spheres of the pundits and the reality on the ground. The 'idea men' in Washington and New York have gotten very good at spinning the public and even pundits; the spin just doesn't wash after a little in-country experience.
Well, having used this mode of "argumentation" before, I feel compelled to explain why the chickenhawk charge has real substance.
First, those who have served are more likely to know people still in the military, are far more able to understand the motives of people in the military, their wants and desires. Most importantly, they can empathize with those still on active duty or in the reserve. These Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines are not mere abstractions, but comrades. Those who have served are thus less likely to waste there lives, or even their time, sending them on missions that are not in the United States' vital interests.
Second, going through bootcamp, OCS etc. makes a person humble. Humility is a virtue these gas bags on the pro-war right sorely lacks.
Finally, having served, even in peace time or in 'peacekeeping' operations, is a great window into just how great the disparity is between the celestial spheres of the pundits and the reality on the ground. The 'idea men' in Washington and New York have gotten very good at spinning the public and even pundits; the spin just doesn't wash after a little in-country experience.
