Wars are not possible to conduct with precision, particularly when the enemy delights in human shields. We'll never actually know the degree of involvement of those who died (especially in the ubiquitous persecutions) the fog of war being what it is. That war is arguably the best ever conducted, including the end-game, which given the subsequent decisions of his son, was stunningly wise. The much higher count of victims of Sadaam without his post-war leash (ironically, including Iranians/Persians) are quite happy for what we did, as I think any Utilitarian would have to be as well.
Under his guidance we developed unheard of precision- and continue to be unique among powers for putting such energy into being sparing and selective when conducting war.
That said, as a veteran, I object to the unavoidable logic that when we bemoan civilian casualties more than soldiers, we are also saying that soldiers' lives count less- all because they wear a uniform... that's a kind of racism as well. Wearing a uniform, for service or from draft- a cause beyond their control, in either case service ought to make their lives more precious, not less. If one followed similar lines of logic. In fact, along those lines, what value does a civilian really add-- by virtue of civilian status? But patience to prevent such murmurs soon replies... All are created equal-- equal value.
As far as dissing a man for one tv ad, I'd love some political balance (I watch both Michael Moore documentaries and Dinesh D'Souza) and I'd love some balance in assessing a man's life. He was a good, good man.
|
Threaded Mode
