The Dutch Investors The soldiers who didn't shoot | A story of war, humanity, and the cost of pessimism
Jul 6, 2025
Dive into a gripping exploration of human nature and decision-making rooted in a World War II story about soldiers' reluctance to kill. The discussion connects this historical insight to the world of investing, highlighting how optimism can fuel better investment strategies. Learn how a negative mindset can obstruct opportunities and the importance of patience in making thoughtful, informed decisions. Discover that sometimes, the most profound investment lessons come from unexpected places.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
The Soldiers Who Didn't Fire
- During a 1943 battle in the Pacific, only 15-25% of American soldiers fired their weapons.
- Most soldiers chose not to shoot, showing a strong inner resistance to killing others even in war.
Gettysburg Soldiers' Silent Rebellion
- At the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, 90% of recovered muskets were still loaded after combat.
- Many soldiers kept reloading to avoid firing, using it as a silent protest against war.
Optimism Is An Investor's Edge
- Pessimism leads investors to avoid markets, thinking things will only worsen.
- Optimism, rooted in history, is crucial for long-term investing and believing in economic progress.
