964: Responding to Senator McConnell's Economic Plan (War is a Racket by the Maverick Marine, Major General Smedley Butler)
Sep 11, 2023
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The podcast discusses Senator McConell's economic plan and explores its implications on the defense industry. They analyze Major General Smedley Butler's essay on war as a profitable racket. The economic aspects of war and the profits made by bankers, manufacturers, and propaganda are examined. The chapter also proposes restrictions on income and advocates for a limited plebiscite to determine war declaration. The influence of money on the US decision to enter World War I is discussed, as well as the secrecy surrounding war discussions and the failure of disarmament conferences.
War is driven by profit, benefiting a small group at the expense of the majority.
Soldiers and their families bear the physical, mental, and financial costs of war while corporations and industries profit.
Deep dives
War is a Racket
Major General Smedley Butler's essay, 'War is a Racket,' exposes the profitability and corruption behind war. The essay argues that war is perpetuated by a small group of individuals who profit from the suffering of the majority. Major General Butler highlights the immense profits made by corporations, bankers, and speculators during times of war, while the common soldiers and their families bear the brunt of the physical, mental, and financial costs. The essay calls for the removal of profit incentives in warfare, the democratic involvement of those directly affected by war in decisions of war, and limitations on military forces to defensive purposes only. Major General Butler concludes by emphasizing the need to prioritize peace and prosperity over war and its destructive consequences.
The Suffering of Soldiers and Their Families
Major General Butler sheds light on the immense sacrifice and suffering endured by soldiers and their families during war. He highlights the physical and mental devastation experienced by soldiers on the front lines, who face death, injury, and trauma. Furthermore, Butler points out the financial burdens placed on soldiers' families, as they struggle to cope with the loss of their loved ones or care for those who return physically or mentally debilitated. By emphasizing the true costs paid by soldiers and their families, the essay challenges the glorified notions of war often portrayed in society.
The Profit-Driven Nature of War
Major General Butler exposes the profit-driven nature of war, with private corporations, munitions makers, bankers, and other industries benefiting greatly from conflict. He highlights how war serves as a lucrative market for these entities, allowing them to accumulate vast profits, while the majority suffer the consequences. The essay provides concrete examples of corporations and their exorbitant wartime earnings, demonstrating how the war racket enriches a few at the expense of many. Major General Butler calls for the removal of profit incentives in wartime and advocates for fair compensation for workers, putting an end to the exploitation seen in war-related industries.
The Need for Disarmament and Defense Limitations
Major General Butler argues for disarmament and defense limitations as crucial steps towards eliminating the war racket. He calls for all nations to scrap their weaponry and limit military forces to defensive purposes only. By dismantling the machinery of war, the essay suggests that nations can remove the temptation to engage in offensive actions and destructive conflicts. Major General Butler proposes that military funding should be redirected towards economic prosperity and the well-being of citizens, encouraging a shift towards peaceful and constructive endeavors.
