Peter RogersLiving in an Age of Terror
April 28th 2008 14:02
In a world where every political or international relations news post seems to use terrorism as a crutch for or against its argument, it would seem relevant to identify what impact this is having on the collective psyche and behaviour of society. Certainly the events of the classic Orwellian dystopia in 'Nineteen Eighty-Four' only seem to come closer to fruition on a monthly basis.
Left, Right, Centre, Conservative, Liberal, Democrat, or Socialist - the Age of Terrorism has hit every political sphere and, since the ever-reminiscent day we may 'Never Forget', we as the public are constantly reminded (practically daily) of what 'fear' we should remind ourselves of, and that we could be under attack any minute; that we are 'at threat' and can not take chances, should a similar event occur.
International security theory has oft investigated the concept of reduced liberties in the name of increased national security; certainly the importance of national security should not be tarnished. However, what should be open to constructive criticism is open debate into the activities of Government, in particular towards the level of liberties forfeited. 9/11 was of a scale and magnitude that would be an equivalent of a slap in the face for the West; a 'wake up and smell the coffee' if you will, further propagated since with London, Bali, and Madrid.
It seems irrational yet none-too-surprising that the US have led a campaign, defying the UN and international protest, namely from usual allies, to enter into what has dragged out into an series of campaigns and wars that are seemingly incapable of being won. One would think that the lessons of Vietnam would have made a greater impact upon those responsible for strategic and operational relations, given the scars left from the failures and betrayal of those who served by their country. Yet it didn't seem to make the slightest of difference in approach - except for perhaps the increased 'hearts and minds' campaigns, further fueled unfortunately by corporations acquiring ludicrous dollars and contracts unchallenged.
In essence it seems to be a mere case of history repeating in a fantastic cycle of war and dollars all over again; the same gilded pockets being lined back home while the same ranks serve the frontlines of hell.
Left, Right, Centre, Conservative, Liberal, Democrat, or Socialist - the Age of Terrorism has hit every political sphere and, since the ever-reminiscent day we may 'Never Forget', we as the public are constantly reminded (practically daily) of what 'fear' we should remind ourselves of, and that we could be under attack any minute; that we are 'at threat' and can not take chances, should a similar event occur.
International security theory has oft investigated the concept of reduced liberties in the name of increased national security; certainly the importance of national security should not be tarnished. However, what should be open to constructive criticism is open debate into the activities of Government, in particular towards the level of liberties forfeited. 9/11 was of a scale and magnitude that would be an equivalent of a slap in the face for the West; a 'wake up and smell the coffee' if you will, further propagated since with London, Bali, and Madrid.
It seems irrational yet none-too-surprising that the US have led a campaign, defying the UN and international protest, namely from usual allies, to enter into what has dragged out into an series of campaigns and wars that are seemingly incapable of being won. One would think that the lessons of Vietnam would have made a greater impact upon those responsible for strategic and operational relations, given the scars left from the failures and betrayal of those who served by their country. Yet it didn't seem to make the slightest of difference in approach - except for perhaps the increased 'hearts and minds' campaigns, further fueled unfortunately by corporations acquiring ludicrous dollars and contracts unchallenged.
In essence it seems to be a mere case of history repeating in a fantastic cycle of war and dollars all over again; the same gilded pockets being lined back home while the same ranks serve the frontlines of hell.
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