Podcast Summary
Marine Corps officer Major Smedley Darlington Butler's perspective on war: Decorated war veteran Major Smedley Darlington Butler criticized war and the military-industrial complex in his book 'War is a Racket' after serving in multiple conflicts, including the Philippines, China, Central America, and World War 1, earning two Medals of Honor and the Brevet Medal.
Major Smedley Darlington Butler, a decorated Marine Corps officer, held complex views on war and its implications. He served in multiple conflicts, including the Philippines, China, Central America, and World War 1, earning two Medals of Honor and the Brevet Medal. After retiring from the military, he wrote "War is a Racket," a book criticizing war and the military-industrial complex. Although his extreme views might alienate some, it's essential to consider the potential merits of his arguments. As the U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan after 20 years of war, it's worth revisiting Butler's perspective to understand the costs and limitations of military intervention. Born into a privileged background, Butler's upbringing, education, and military experiences shaped his unique perspective on war and its consequences.
A young man with an extraordinary military career, including multiple conflicts and a Medal of Honor: Smedley Butler, a high school dropout who lied about his age to join the Marines, had an impressive military career, including multiple conflicts and earning the Medal of Honor twice.
Smedley Butler, a young man who left high school at 16 to join the Marine Corps and lied about his age to become a second lieutenant, went on to have an extraordinary military career. He saw his first combat action during the Spanish-American War and was later awarded a Brevet promotion for his bravery, which looked similar to the Medal of Honor. Butler continued to serve in various conflicts, earning the nickname "Old Gimlet Eye" for his piercing gaze. Despite leaving the military and starting a family, he returned to serve multiple times, leading troops in Central America and earning his first Medal of Honor during the Battle of Veracruz. Despite the low intensity conflicts and high premium areas, Butler's bravery and leadership were recognized with the highest military honor.
Marine Corps hero Smedley Butler's controversial life: Smedley Butler, a decorated Marine Corps veteran, waged personal wars on crime and politics, faced court-martial for spreading rumors, and influenced global events
Smedley Butler, a Marine Corps hero, received multiple Medals of Honor for his actions in Veracruz and Haiti, despite feeling uncomfortable about them. After these experiences, he became a public administrator and later, a commanding general. In Philadelphia, he waged a personal war on crime during the Prohibition era, making many enemies. During World War 1, he was kept out of combat due to his reputation. After his service, he influenced politics in China and became a major general. Despite his accomplishments, he was court-martialed for spreading rumors about Italian leader Benito Mussolini. This extraordinary life of Smedley Butler, filled with bravery, controversy, and impact, is a testament to his unique character and contributions to history.
A Disillusioned War Hero's Anti-War Crusade: Major General Smedley Butler, a decorated war hero, denounced his past military interventions on behalf of American business interests and became a vocal critic of war and militarism.
Major General Smedley Butler, a highly decorated Marine Corps veteran, became disillusioned with war and capitalism after his military career. Following his retirement in 1931, he went on a lecture tour and donated his earnings to unemployment relief. He ran for Senate but was unsuccessful. During the Great Depression, he supported the Bonus Army, a group of World War I veterans demanding early payment of their service certificates. In a speech published in a socialist magazine, he denounced his past role as a "racketeer for capitalism," detailing his involvement in military interventions on behalf of American business interests. In 1934, Butler was involved in the "Business Plot," a conspiracy to overthrow President Roosevelt. In 1935, he wrote "War is a Racket," a book criticizing war and militarism. This former Medal of Honor recipient's experiences and writings challenge the indoctrination that the military and its history are inherently noble. His story serves as a reminder of the complexities and controversies that can exist within the ranks of even the most revered institutions.
Marine Corps veteran Smedley Butler's impact on military history: Despite fewer casualties, Smedley Butler's experiences during the less structured wars before WW1 showcased the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness in the face of less organized opposition.
Smedley Butler, a Marine Corps veteran with two Medals of Honor, is a historic figure whose impact on military history is undeniable, despite the relatively small numbers of wounded and killed during his service before World War 1. Butler's experiences showcase the stark contrast between organized, peer-to-peer conflicts of later wars and the less structured, lopsided battles of the past. His book, "War is a Rocket," offers valuable insights into this period of Marine Corps history, highlighting the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness in the face of less organized opposition. Butler's legacy reminds us of the evolving nature of warfare and the enduring courage and determination of those who serve.
War as a racket for the few to profit: War results in trillions in spending, countless lives lost, and long-term financial burden for the public, while a few profit immensely
War can be seen as a racket, a means for a few to make vast fortunes while the majority suffer the losses. The speaker, who supports the military and is patriotic, questions the justification for spending trillions of dollars and countless lives in conflicts, especially when the ultimate goals and benefits for the majority are unclear. The idea that war is a racket is not new; it has been observed for centuries, with many fortunes made during wars and the public bearing the financial burden. War also results in human casualties, broken homes, economic instability, and long-term taxation. The speaker, who served in the military for many years, only fully realized this after retiring from the military and observing the international political landscape. The speaker's perspective is based on the historical context of World War 2, but the sentiment remains relevant today.
Understanding the Emotions of Conflict Victims: Empathizing with conflict victims and their intense emotions can help prevent future wars. Be wary of leaders who openly advocate for war and dismiss the possibility of peace.
The speaker is expressing empathy towards the frustration and anger of individuals who have experienced the reality of conflict, no matter the scale. During discussions about historical conflicts, the speaker recalls his own experience of being shot at and the intense emotion that comes with being a potential victim. The speaker also highlights the concerning rhetoric of leaders like Mussolini, who openly express their disbelief in the possibility of peace and their eagerness for war. These leaders' actions and words indicate that war is imminent, and the speaker believes that the best way to avoid it is to be prepared for it. Overall, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotions and perspectives of individuals who have experienced conflict firsthand and the potential danger of leaders who openly advocate for war.
Open Door Policy and War Profits: The allure of war profits can lead to significant financial gains, but the human cost and long-term national debt often outweigh the benefits
The open door policy towards China and the potential conflict with Japan could lead to significant financial gains for certain industries and individuals, but at a great cost to human life and long-term national debt. The speaker argues that war pays high dividends for a few, but the loss for the majority, including lives and physical and mental health, far outweighs the profits. He uses historical examples to illustrate the financial strain caused by international entanglements and the disproportionate distribution of war profits. The argument is not that profits are inherently bad, but rather that the cost to the average American is often overlooked. The speaker concludes by cautioning against the allure of war profits and the potential for leaders like Hitler to exploit this dynamic.
Profits skyrocketed during wartime for various industries: Industries, especially in capitalist economies, experienced substantial profit growth during wartime due to high demand for goods and services.
During war times, there was a significant increase in profits for various industries compared to normal times. For instance, the DuPont Company's profits increased by over 950%, Bethlehem Steel's profits jumped from $6 million to $49 million, and Anaconda's profits surged from $10 million to $34 million. This trend was not limited to steel and chemical companies, as even leather and sugar companies saw substantial profit growth. The profits of coal companies were exceptional, with some making over 7,800% on their capital stock during the war. The banking sector also saw immense profits, although the exact figures remain secret. The reason for this profit surge was the high demand for goods and services during war times, which capitalist economies like the United States were able to meet more effectively than socialist or communist economies. Some industrialists and speculators also made profits by selling to both allies and enemies. However, there were also instances of government waste, highlighting the importance of the free market in streamlining operations.
Excess Military Production and Profits during WW1: During WW1, excess military production led to $16B in profits for a few, while the US govt spent $52B
During World War I, there was a significant amount of excess production and sales of military equipment and supplies to the US government, despite the military's actual needs. This resulted in large profits for manufacturers, with some examples including the sale of unnecessary mosquito nets, airplane engines, wrenches, and buckboards. The war is estimated to have cost $52 billion, with $16 billion in profits going to a few billionaires and millionaires. The senate committee probe into the munitions industry and its wartime profits only scratched the surface of the issue.
War Profits vs Soldier's Sacrifices: During WWI, soldiers paid the heaviest price, while some profited from government spending on securities. Veterans suffered mentally and physically, with higher mortality rates compared to civilians.
During World War I, while some profited immensely from the war effort, the soldiers paid the heaviest price. The war department formed a committee to limit war profits, but there were no provisions to limit losses or injuries to soldiers. The profits came from taxpayer money, with the government buying and selling securities, leaving the soldiers to bear the brunt of the costs. The mental and physical toll on soldiers after the war was immense, with many suffering from the trauma of war and struggling to readjust to civilian life. The author visited veterans hospitals and reported that the mortality rate among veterans was three times higher than among those who stayed at home. The soldiers, who were once an integral part of the war machine, were left to cope with the aftermath on their own.
The role of war in soldiers' adaptation and coping: World War 2 provided a clear sense of purpose and justification for soldiers, aiding their adaptation and coping. In contrast, the experience of soldiers returning from World War 1 was confusing and blurry, making readjustment difficult. Modern desensitization to violence and movies like 'Saving Private Ryan' help soldiers prepare for the realities of war.
The experience of returning home after a war, particularly World War 2, played a significant role in helping soldiers adapt and cope. The clear sense of good and evil, and the global necessity of the war provided a justification and a sense of purpose. However, the same was not true for soldiers who returned from World War 1, which was a much more confusing and blurry conflict. Additionally, modern desensitization to violence, through media and video games, has made it easier for people to handle the realities of war. Conversely, soldiers in the past, who came from peaceful backgrounds, were unprepared for the horrors of war and found it difficult to readjust to civilian life. The discussion also touched upon the disappearance of extreme violent content online and the impact of movies like "Saving Private Ryan" in preparing soldiers for the realities of war.
War experiences and their aftermath differ greatly among veterans: Some veterans struggle deeply after the war, while others resume normal lives. Each veteran's story is unique and complex.
War experiences and its aftermath can vary greatly among individuals. Some may return home and resume their normal lives, while others may struggle deeply. The song "Wish It Was True" by White Buffalo, which was discussed, reflects the perspective of a soldier who came home to be discarded, but this is not the experience for all veterans. The military trains and uses large numbers of people to fight, and when the war is over, they are often thanked and released. Some veterans, like Eugene Sledge and William Reeder, went on to have successful careers in the military despite their experiences. However, not all veterans received a warm welcome home, and some, like those held captive in the Hanoi Hilton, found solace in the camaraderie they formed during their time in captivity. The experiences of veterans are complex and multifaceted, and it's important to remember that each individual's story is unique.
War experience of WW1 soldiers vs modern soldiers: WW1 soldiers faced war without prior knowledge, lost jobs, and were conscripted with decorations, contrasting modern soldiers' exposure and compensation
The experience of young soldiers going to war during World War 1 was vastly different from what we see today. Unlike modern soldiers who have some exposure to war through media and societal discourse, these soldiers had no idea what war was and were thrown into a conflict where human life was less valued than material resources. Additionally, soldiers during this time paid the cost of war not only with their lives but also with their livelihoods, as they were often replaced in their jobs and communities while they served. The government also used decorations as a means to conscript soldiers for less money. These historical facts highlight the significant contrast between the realities of war for soldiers during World War 1 and the relative understanding and compensation soldiers have today.
Using propaganda to encourage conscription during WWI: To prevent exploitation in future wars, conscript capital, industry, and labor before soldiers, limiting the wealthy's income and requiring them to support families and buy war bonds.
During World War I, propaganda was used extensively to encourage conscription and make the war seem glorious and necessary. Soldiers were paid a small wage, but a significant portion was taken to support their families, leaving them with very little. They were also required to buy Liberty bonds. The war profiteers, including capitalists, industrialists, and bankers, made vast sums of money while the soldiers and their families suffered. The only way to prevent such exploitation in future wars is by conscripting capital, industry, and labor before conscripting soldiers. This means limiting the income of the wealthy and powerful to the same wage as soldiers, requiring them to support their families and buy war bonds. By doing so, we can ensure that the burden of war is shared more equitably.
Empowering the People to Decide on War: Giving those of military age and physical condition the power to vote in a limited plebiscite can make war's impact more personal and increase resistance against unnecessary conflicts.
To effectively address the issue of unnecessary wars and the profit-driven war industry, the people who bear the brunt of the war's consequences should have the power to decide whether their country goes to war or not. This can be achieved through a limited plebiscite, where only those of military age and physical condition to bear arms can vote. This idea gained some traction during the Vietnam War when the draft affected not just the poor but also the middle and upper classes. By making the war's impact more personal, the resistance against the war grew. The speaker argues that this is a necessary step in the fight to "smash the war racket."
Limiting military reach prevents unnecessary wars: Limiting military forces to home defense can prevent unnecessary wars and reduce the influence of the military industrial complex. Informing the public and involving them in decision-making can also prevent costly and potentially avoidable conflicts.
Limiting military forces to home defense purposes is crucial in preventing unnecessary wars. The military industrial complex, through lobbying by high-ranking officials, can manipulate public fear and push for larger military budgets and expansive military presence. By lawfully limiting the military's reach to within 200 miles of the coastline, the U.S. could have avoided entering wars like the Spanish-American War and potentially World War I. This approach allows for the projection of power without needlessly antagonizing other nations and risking lives and resources. Additionally, keeping the public informed about war negotiations and involving them in decision-making processes can prevent governments from making sudden and costly war declarations based on financial interests.
International conferences and disarmament efforts have fallen short: Military leaders, politicians, and diplomats prioritize their own interests over disarmament and peace, leading to a culture of competition and expansion that perpetuates the cycle of war and arms races.
Despite the grandiose promises and the hopes of ending wars and promoting democracy, the reality of international conferences and disarmament efforts has fallen short. Military leaders, politicians, and diplomats, driven by their desire for power and resources, have prioritized their own interests over disarmament and peace. The individual efforts of commanders on the ground, while impressive, can lead to a lack of clear goals and competition, potentially resulting in unnecessary expansion and growth. The mindset of "doing more than the next guy" prevails, with no admiral or general advocating for fewer ships or divisions. This culture of competition and expansion, rather than cooperation and disarmament, perpetuates the cycle of war and arms races.
Pressure to meet expectations can lead to disastrous consequences: The pressure to declare Iraqi troops ready for unilateral operations despite their unpreparedness led to a self-fulfilling prophecy of disaster. Prioritizing resources for destruction over constructive endeavors can also lead to conflicts.
The pressure to meet expectations and deliver results, especially in military contexts, can lead to making hasty decisions and putting underprepared forces into dangerous situations. This was discussed in the context of training Iraqi troops during the Iraq War, where the desire to declare them ready for unilateral operations was strong, but the reality was that they were not yet capable. This phenomenon, known as a self-fulfilling prophecy, can lead to disastrous consequences. The speaker also touched upon the idea that the drive for more resources and power, such as ships and weapons, can lead to conflicts and the prioritization of destruction over constructive endeavors. Ultimately, it's important to critically evaluate the information presented and consider how it applies to current contexts.
Profit drives both military and corporate worlds: Profit is a significant factor, but both military and corporations also provide goods, services, and jobs, improving people's lives.
During a conversation with Russell Brand, it was revealed that both the military and corporate worlds are driven by profit, but that's not the only factor. Brand asked if wars and businesses were simply driven by greed, and the answer is yes, but there's more to it. Companies create products that people want and need, and they employ people, making their lives better. The same can be said for war, where defense companies make money during conflicts, but the risks taken and lives saved by these companies are worth it. The conversation touched on the military industrial complex, capitalism, and the role of profits in shaping these powerful institutions. Ultimately, it's important to remember that while profit is a driving force, it's not the only one.
Military operations save lives and protect families, but profit motives must be aligned with benevolent reasons: Military innovation and profit are not mutually exclusive. While companies profit from military operations, the positive impact on soldiers and strategic goals is essential. However, it's crucial to ensure that the primary motivation for going to war is for benevolent reasons to avoid harmful consequences.
While defense companies make profits from military operations, the good they bring cannot be ignored. We have saved lives and protected families from terrorists and insurgents. The drive for innovation and better technology in the military industry is not just about money, but also about improving protection for soldiers and achieving strategic goals. However, it's crucial to ensure that the primary motivation for going to war is for benevolent reasons and that the positive impact outweighs the negative. Alignment between profit and positive impact is desirable, but misalignment can lead to harmful consequences. The example of body armor development illustrates this concept well. While the company's goal is to make the best body armor and make a profit, the outcome benefits both the American soldier and the military. However, if the driving force behind going to war is solely for profit, then it's important to question the motives and consider the potential negative consequences.
Recognize the human element behind every organization: Understand that most entities are made up of people with diverse motivations and goals, and maintain a nuanced perspective to avoid misconceptions
It's essential to remember that behind every industry, government, or military entity are people trying to do the right thing. The tendency to view these institutions as monolithic entities with singular goals, such as maximizing profits or causing harm, can be misleading. While there are exceptions, most companies and individuals strive to make a positive impact. Survivor bias, the tendency to focus on successful entities while ignoring those that have failed, can give a skewed perspective. Modern technology and increased transparency keep the vast majority of entities in check, making it crucial to maintain a nuanced perspective. In essence, it's essential to recognize the human element behind every organization and understand their motivations and goals.
The natural tension between war supporters and peacekeepers: Maintaining the tension between those who want war and those who want peace ensures thoughtful decision-making and respects the gravity of potential loss of life.
There should be a natural tension between those who want to go to war and those who want to prevent it. This tension is important because it ensures that the decision to go to war is not taken lightly, and that the potential consequences, including loss of life, are not forgotten. It's essential to maintain this tension, as the fantasy of world peace is not a reality and there are people who actively oppose it. We need to accept and face this reality, and be around people who share this understanding. It's important to manage and guide this tension, but we should also want marines who are willing to go to war, as this desire is not a bad thing in itself. The speaker emphasizes the importance of remembering the reality of war and the potential loss of life, and warns against the dangers of pretending that these realities don't exist.
Maintaining an open mind in decision making: Staying detached for clear understanding, but considering impact on others. Balancing perspective and reality in complex situations. Technology aids informed decisions, but open minds essential.
Maintaining an open and sharp mind is crucial when making decisions, especially in complex and emotionally charged situations. Having a detached perspective can help us understand different perspectives and make informed decisions, but it's also important to consider the impact on those directly involved. The challenges lie in striking a balance between insulating ourselves from the harsh realities of certain situations and ensuring we have a clear understanding of their implications. Technology has made it harder to hide nefarious intentions, but it also allows us to learn from various perspectives and make more informed decisions. Ultimately, it's essential to keep our minds open and sharp to navigate the complexities of the world around us.
Importance of considering the bigger picture in spending: Be mindful of expenses, avoid overspending, and consider the bigger picture when allocating resources, whether personal or governmental.
It's easy for individuals and organizations to overspend when they're not using their own money. This was discussed in relation to a situation where a large sum of money was being allocated for military supplies, with the implication that not all of it was necessary or effectively used. The speaker emphasized the importance of detaching from a specific perspective and considering the bigger picture. He also mentioned the difficulty of controlling prices and the dangers of excessive government spending. From a personal finance standpoint, the speaker advised being mindful of expenses and avoiding overspending, especially when it's not one's own money. Overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of avoiding waste and being responsible with resources.
Companies Prioritizing Consumer Health: Support companies like JocoFuel for healthy, beneficial products, avoiding negative consequences of unhealthy or unethically produced alternatives.
Not all companies prioritize the health and wellbeing of their consumers. Some may cut costs and add harmful substances like sugar or even resort to unethical labor practices. However, there are companies like JocoFuel that prioritize creating clean, beneficial products, such as their energy drinks, which offer both short-term and long-term advantages, including electrolytes, protein, and joint support. By choosing to support these companies, consumers can avoid the negative consequences of unhealthy or unethically produced products. JocoFuel's offerings, available at their website and select retailers, provide a win-win situation for both immediate and long-term benefits.
Shop ethically with Origin USA and Jocco Store: Support ethical businesses, avoid slave labor, and feel good about your purchases with Origin USA and Jocco Store's American-made products.
Origin USA offers ethically-sourced, American-made products, allowing consumers to avoid supporting companies that use slave labor. This not only ensures better working conditions but also allows consumers to feel good about their purchases. Additionally, Jocco Store provides an avenue for individuals to represent their values through clothing and accessories, offering a range of items for both men and women. The informal and authentic presentation of the products' creation process on the company's YouTube channel adds to the appeal. By choosing Origin USA and Jocco Store, consumers can enjoy guilt-free shopping while also supporting American businesses.
Exploring creative designs, ensuring quality, and seeking advice through podcasts: Check out new designs, ensure quality through inspections, and gain insights from podcasts like Jocko Underground
The discussion revolves around checking out new creative designs, ensuring quality through inspection, and providing advice through podcasts like Jocko Underground. The speakers emphasize the importance of approval processes and quality assurance to avoid errors. They also promote various podcasts, including Jocko Underground, where listeners can send questions for advice and hear Jocko's insights. The speakers encourage supporting the podcast by subscribing and mention a collaboration on an album called "Psychological Warfare." Additionally, they recommend checking out FlipsideCanvas.com for items to hang on walls and mentioned Dakota Meyer, a Medal of Honor recipient, and his company.
Developing Strong Leadership Skills: Effective leadership involves self-evaluation, following protocols, continuous learning, extreme ownership, discipline, teamwork, seeking guidance, and considering the risks and benefits of actions.
Effective leadership requires self-evaluation, following protocols, and continuous learning. Jocko Willink and his team at Echelon Front offer various resources, including books, live events, online training, and a charity organization, to help individuals and organizations develop strong leadership skills. Through their experiences in the military and consulting, they emphasize the importance of extreme ownership, discipline, and teamwork. Don't forget to ask questions and seek guidance at extremeownership.com. Additionally, consider supporting organizations like America's Mighty Warriors, which help military families and veterans. Remember, the risks and benefits of your actions should be weighed carefully, and make sure you're doing the right things for the right reasons.
