Political Theory 101
Clausewitz (w/Elizabeth Dearden-Williams)
Nov 20, 2024
Elizabeth Dearden-Williams, a Cambridge graduate pursuing her master's, dives into the fascinating world of Carl von Clausewitz. They tackle the intricate relationship between war and politics, using insights from contemporary conflicts like Ukraine. The conversation highlights how public opinion shapes military actions and the challenges of unity in diverse societies facing existential threats. They also explore historical military theories impacting modern American foreign policy and analyze the Cuban Missile Crisis through a game theory lens, revealing the unpredictable nature of strategy.
58:09
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Quick takeaways
- Clausewitz's analysis of war emphasizes the interplay of passion, chance, and politics, which are crucial for effective military strategy.
- The podcast highlights how political narratives shape public perception of wars, as seen in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Deep dives
Clausewitz's Background and Influences
Karl von Clausewitz was born in 1780 in Prussia and joined the army at a young age, witnessing significant conflicts during the Napoleonic Wars. After being captured by Napoleon and spending time in a French prison, he returned to reform the Prussian army and fought at the Battle of Waterloo. His magnum opus, 'On War,' published posthumously by his wife, has profoundly influenced military thought and strategy worldwide, appealing to notable figures such as Dwight Eisenhower and Vladimir Lenin. Despite not being finished during his lifetime, this work presents a complex analysis of war that balances passion, creativity, and political reasoning.
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