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So the bottom line is that the amateurs were more professionally led and supplied than the "professionals".

I realize there is probably no empirical basis for saying so, but I can't shake the impression that undertakings that are conceived and launched under false pretexts tend to be incompetently executed as well.

The fact is that what we're experiencing right now is a top-down disaster. -Paul Krugman

by dvx (dvx.clt ät gmail dotcom) on Tue Sep 9th, 2008 at 09:25:07 AM EST
Great point.  The reason is that wars launched under false pretense are typically more valued for their symbolism, which is intact so long as the war is ongoing and "justified" than they are for their actual achievement. Thus greater effort is placed into maintaining the wars justification and symbolism than its actual execution.  The opposing side in the war does not share the same priorities and as anyone with experience in life can tell you the party making more effort typically has the advantage.
by paving on Tue Sep 9th, 2008 at 04:05:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]
That's true. Thinking about it further, I think another factor is that unjustifiable undertakings might tend to stifle accountability: those at the top will hesitate to hold subordinates accountable out of a fear that criticism will reflect badly on their own decision-making.

The fact is that what we're experiencing right now is a top-down disaster. -Paul Krugman
by dvx (dvx.clt ät gmail dotcom) on Wed Sep 10th, 2008 at 03:11:28 AM EST
[ Parent ]
I'd say they do that inherently.  If a greater action is unjustifiable wouldn't any part of it be the same?  Basically if you reprimand the Abu-Ghraib people they have a legitimate answer in "well, isn't this whole thing basically the same?"  If you grant the leadership an empathetic character they would be thus disinclined to object.  If you grant them the flawed humanity that is most likely they simply don't give a fuck.
by paving on Wed Sep 10th, 2008 at 03:22:38 PM EST
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