

305: The Worst Mistakes are The Ones We Don't See. On The Psychology of Military Incompetence Pt.3
23 snips Oct 27, 2021
Dive into the psychological pitfalls of military incompetence and the struggle between tradition and innovation. Explore how emotional attachments to outdated practices hindered advancements in military aviation. Analyze critical misjudgments from historical battles, revealing the disconnect between leadership and ground realities. The conversation emphasizes the vital role of adaptability, communication, and discipline in overcoming failures. Lastly, discover how emotional detachment in decision-making can lead to more effective leadership.
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British Military Post-WWI
- The British military, after World War I, prioritized spit and polish over lessons learned.
- They focused on appearances rather than adapting to modern warfare.
Tanks vs. Horses
- Despite witnessing the potential of tanks in 1916, the British military resisted mechanization for decades.
- They clung to horses and dismissed tanks, delaying crucial modernization.
Suppressed Innovation
- General Fuller, an advocate for tank warfare, was punished for his progressive ideas.
- His books, though rejected by the British, became required reading for the German general staff.