Iraq War: Illusions Defined

This commentary by Andrew Bacevich includes some worthwhile thoughts on practical lessons the US can learn from the Iraq War: Mr. Bush's Grand Illusions Los Angeles Times 02/19/04.

First, the illusion that the "end of history" is at hand, needing only a gentle nudge from the United States to bring humankind to its prescribed destination, to wit, a world that adheres to the norms of American-style democratic capitalism. Events in Iraq provide daily reminders that history still has mysteries and surprises to spare. The expectations of our own ideologues notwithstanding, the world is not eager to remake itself in America's own image. Nor should it be.

Second, the illusion that wherever the U.S. leads, others will be quick to follow. The Iraq misadventure demolished that notion and left the U.S. not only isolated but viewed in some quarters as a bigger problem than Saddam Hussein's Iraq ever was. No doubt, in some sense, the world needs the U.S. to exercise global leadership, but in an equally real sense, to lead effectively the U.S. needs the active support of allies.

Third, the illusion that in an information age, military power, at least as employed by Washington, has become something of an all-purpose problem solver. Iraq has amply demonstrated the limits of "shock and awe."

Fourth, the illusion that the world's sole superpower has reserves of power to spare. It doesn't, not militarily, not financially and not morally. Iraq has shown how narrow the margin is between global hegemony and imperial overstretch. Notably, the cause of Iraqi liberation has not evoked any discernible American enthusiasm for coughing up more tax dollars or more recruits. We want to win. But don't expect us to sacrifice.

That latter point reflects one of the worst failures of Bush's leadership. After 9/11, the "sacrifices" he asked the general public to make for their country were shop 'til you drop, travel all you want, and most of all, pay less taxes!