They Never Learn Posted by Michael Cohen

In an ongoing effort to prove that the US foreign policy pundit class is seemingly incapable of engaging in deductive reasoning, check out Roger Cohen's piece on Monday trumpeting US intervention in Libya.

The intervention has been done right — with the legality of strong United Nations backing, full support from America’s European allies, and quiet arming of the rebels. The Libyan people have been freed from a crazed tyranny. Unlike in Iraq, burdens were shared: America flew the intelligence missions and did the refueling while the French, British, Dutch and others did most of the bombing. Iraq was the wrong prism through which to look at Libya. I’m glad I resisted that temptation. Another cycle has begun.

In the end, I think interventionism is inextricable from the American idea. If the United States retreats into isolationism, it ceases to be itself — a nation dedicated, however much it falls short, to a universalist ideal of freedom.

There are no fixed doctrinal answers — a successful Libyan intervention does not mean one in Syria is feasible — but the idea that the West must at times be prepared to fight for its values against barbarism is the best hope for a 21st century less cruel than the 20th.

First things first, it is simply not possible to describe the Libyan intervention as successful . . until the war, you know, actually ends. I mean obviously it is possible; it's just really foolish. We are still a very long way from being able to make the judgment that US intervention in Libya furthered US national security interests.

Second, Cohen is definitely right that interventionism is inextricable from the American idea; but if he wants to know why he might do well to consider the deeper meaning of his argument that "West must at times be prepared to fight for its values against barbarism is the best hope for a 21st century less cruel than the 20th."  It's this sort of exceptionalist mindset; this notion that the US has a responsibility - and the capabilities - to fight for its values; that is precisely the reason why America IS an interventionist nation. Cohen seems to miss completely the connection between American exceptionalist myth-making and failed US military interventions.

Don't believe me? Check out what Cohen says earlier in the piece. In describing Peter Beinart's argument that US military intervention operates in various cycles he makes the following statement:

Beinart describes how . . . he in time became sickened by the Vietnam analogy with its recurring prescription for inaction. Shaped by Bosnia, he backed the Iraq war. The pendulum had swung. Vietnam-induced excess of caution had given way to Bosnian-induced hubris.

I, too, fell under its influence. Mea culpa. Whatever the monstrosity of Saddam, and whatever the great benefit to the world of his disappearance, the war as it was justified and fought — under false pretenses, without many of America’s closest allies, in ignorance and incompetence — was a stain on America’s conscience.

Here's the beauty of this: Cohen recognizes that what led the US into Iraq was a certain "hubris" that came from intervention in the Balkans. (This by the way is almost certainly true and helps explain why so many liberal hawks supported the ill-fated Iraq intervention.) And yet he's completely blind to the fact that he is engaging in the exact same sort of hubris regarding Libya. Cohen seems to understand the connection between humanitarian intervention in the Balkans and Iraq, but is simply incapable of understanding how his own triumphalism on Libya might presage the next US military intervention.

To be sure it's not remarkable when foreign policy pundits fail to recognize or acknowledge the inconsistency in their views re: national security policy or US military interventions. it's rather amazing when they fail to recognize it in one 800 word op-ed.

Comments

[swiss watch replica]

This is a really good read for me. This is a really good read for me. I amm still learning from you, but I amm improving myself. Keep the information coming. Keep the information coming.

[cheap nfl jerseys]

I agree you.and I like your post very much.

[dissertation]

interesting thoughts

[vigrx plus reviews]

First things first, it is simply not possible to describe the Libyan intervention as successful . . until the war, you know, actually ends. I mean obviously it is possible; it's just really foolish. We are still a very long way from being able to make the judgment that US intervention in Libya furthered US national security interests.

[Coach Purses]

GOOD VIEWS.

[r4 card]

Thanks for the insight. You are absolutely right.

[Perth Internet Marketing]

Thanks for mentioning different views and counter arguments for views on Libya.Does exceptionalism make American intervention right? Or is it a concept imposed on by America herself?

[Melbourne Internet Marketing]

American policy seems to be too complicated to follow, its practitioners lose sight of it? But your right that it isn't right to look at Libya through the eyes of the Iraqi invasion. That could spell much disaster.

[air max 90]

Is time testimony, leaves meteor is represents the end of a story, snow is a Confucian and lasting of spray phase. They are in the instant a final interpretation, is so fascinating! Just because there are many beautiful moments to construct such a perfect forever. Life might it not? Short life, short and fleeting beautiful. But as long as we try to taste, to listen to, the United States was negligible. When sorrow a comforting, lost when a smile, alone with a blessing... Can give a person to enjoy.

[air max 90]

Is time testimony, leaves meteor is represents the end of a story, snow is a Confucian and lasting of spray phase. They are in the instant a final interpretation, is so fascinating! Just because there are many beautiful moments to construct such a perfect forever. Life might it not? Short life, short and fleeting beautiful. But as long as we try to taste, to listen to, the United States was negligible. When sorrow a comforting, lost when a smile, alone with a blessing... Can give a person to enjoy.

[TERA]

thanks !! very helpful post!Keep working ,great job!

[abercrombie and fitch]

Once again great post. You seem to have a good understanding of these themes.When I entering your blog,I felt this . Come on and keep writting your blog will be more attractive. To Your Success!

[resume help]

The author of article is right

[Coach handbags]

Wow, what a beautiful craftsman! Thanks for introducing me to a woodworker well worth remembering.

[cheap nfl jerseys]

I agree you.

[Rugby Shirts]

I'd rather say, we never learn. Exemption of ourselves doesn't give us credit or doesn't make us better than them.

[cheap north face jackets]

FREE fishing pole and instruction
FREE canoe lessons
FREE kids mountain bike instruction and loaner bikes included
Kids’ crafts and much more!!!!!

[xtremeno]

Thanks for the post! I found this interesting and informative.

[NFL Jerseys]

you in your writing some good advice. It allows the reader to read it think. This is veryinteresting, well-written, compelling content.

[cheap moncler]

I’ve just lately started a personal site, the data you posted on this site has helped me tremendously. I want to thank you for your entire time and work.

[Canada Goose]

I would really like to give thanks a lot for the work you have made in writing this article. I am hoping the same perfect job from you in the future too.

[Moncler Shop]

Great site and post!

[abercrombie and fitch]

The only way to differentiate yourself from the competition is through service.

[wholesale wedding dress]

comfy and warm - These shoes are just what I wanted. They are warm,

comfortable and a pretty color to shoes (pun intended).

[Nike Dunk Shoes]

Everyone’s familiar with the ebay.com, a popular b2c website, which plays a very important role on online business. In the same way, we strive to provide a better place to all our customers: not only satisfying your needs and expectations, but exceeding them.

[Y8]

Writing practice would have been a nice follow-up wishes to you I hope I am constantly reading the posts, Thanks again

[rolex watches]

An earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale jolted off the south Pacific islands of Vanuatu on Monday morning (21:44:21 GMT on Sunday), the U.S. Geological Survey said.The epicenter, with a depth of 59.40 km, was initially determined to be at 19.1556 degrees south latitude and 168.6960 degrees east longitude.A powerful earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale struck off the island nation of Vanuatu on Sunday morning (2255 GMT Saturday).

[supra TK]

earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale jolted off the south Pacific islands of Vanuatu on Monday morning (21:44:21 GMT on Sunday), the U.S. Geological Survey said.The epicenter, with a depth of 59.40 km, was initially determined to be at 19.1556 degrees south latitude and 168.6960 degrees east longitude.A powerful earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale struck off the island nation of Vanuatu on Sunday morning ssd

[android ebook reader]

To be sure it's not remarkable when foreign policy pundits fail to recognize or acknowledge the inconsistency in their views re: national security policy or US military interventions. it's rather amazing when they fail to recognize it in one 800 word op-ed.

[LED street light]

But as long as we try to taste, to listen to, the United States was negligible. When sorrow a comforting, lost when a smile, alone with a blessing...

[north face jackets]

Hey, I still have some questions about it, could you share some further information about it?

[Android 2.3]

It is so luck to see the article today, great article, great
author. I learn something new on different post everyday.
It is always refreshing to read posts of other forums and learn
something from them. Thanks for sharing.

[Minnesota Vikings Jersey]

My partner and I still do not feel that I may be found through this blog on the important thinking of those who read. I and my family sincerely thank you for your generosity, giving me the opportunity to pursue my chosen career path. Thank you for sharing your page I managed to important information.

[angry birds rio]

Very well, I like this very much.

[Merchant Cash Advance]

This post is awesome..i've been reading tons of crap posts from other blogs, but shows you have a more educated reader base.

[best watches replica]

Dhaka, Sep. 6 : Government sources on Tuesday indicated that India and Bangladesh are unlikely to sign a deal on the Teesta river waters issue during the current two-day visit to Dhaka of Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, but could come up with an interim agreement.

[outlettoryburchoutlet]

sdfsdf

[flexible circuits]

I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
more here http://www.china-metaldome.com/, http://www.flexiblecircuitpcb.com/

[Mark]

Meanwhile, al-Basher and Ahmedinijad laugh at the US for Obama's policy choices

http://msmignoresit.blogspot.com/2011/09/al-assad-to-obama.html

[Superpad]

This is a very good article, I think there will be many people
like it, of course, I was one of the people. I think this article
increase my knowledge. Thank you!

[chaussures femmes]

We have gotten many great comments from our customers and earn a good reputation in foreign makerts, more than 90% customers are satisfied with our products and service, till now our online members are beyond 80,000. As of right now, we currently serve customers from over 18 countries, and we are still growing. We really hope to expand our business through cooperation with individuals and companies from around the world Replica Handbags.----ercai

[herve leger dress]

I also have information to share. Herve leger dress can perfectly reveal your body curves and make you look beautifully. Neither do you have to herve leger dresses as good as a model, nor do you have to lose weight in order to fit a herve leger sale. Herve leger bandage will fit you. So does the herve leger skirts. The herve leger strapless can let you fully enjoy the sunshine and the cool water; what’s more, it can make you more herve leger swimsuit. Besides, other types of herve leger dress are also very good, you can have a look at them here. How amazing! Welcome to our store. With the herve leger skirts is becoming more and more popular now, the herve leger strapless is also hot on sale all around the world. The herve leger swimsuit makes you more sexy, charming and elegant, even looking like a queen or princess. Our store have large quantities of herve leger dresses with top quality, cheap price.

[MSMII]

The Middle East is ruled by iron fisted dictators that visit their sadistic pleasures against their citizens, routinely and violently attack neighbors based on issues as seemingly trivial as what form of religion they practice, and smile too sweetly at the US with their hands extended either for a questionable handshake or for money.

http://msmignoresit.blogspot.com/2011/09/discourse-or-death-what-to-do.html

[UGG Boots Canada]

Very useful article for me, there is more information I have is very important. Thank you! I'm glad you could get out of it to share with us.http://www.bootstrade.ca

[Air Max Shoes]

I have really happy for this website is providing the different pots. I am very much satisfied by this technology and nice approach is visible in this blog. Thanks a lot for sharing something information in this website.

[supra TK]

them! They have a sturdier foundation and sole and, I think, more support than the basic Ugg's. At first they felt snug but the shearling inside quickly packed down and they became the correct size. This is my second pair of Ultra Ugg's. I have both the tall and I love both styles

[best watches replica]

Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas has warned misfiring striker Fernando Torres that he has two more matches to improve his game or face being dropped.

Villas-Boas has insisted that he will not jeopardise his team’s ambitions for the sake of an individual.

The Daily Mail quoted the Portuguese, as saying: “I have no problem dropping players. You have to persist, but it can never compromise the objectives of your team and the things you want to achieve.”

[ac adapter]

Villas-Boas has insisted that he will not jeopardise

[oto emlak ilan]

Very well, I like this very much

[full izle]

thank you so much

[luxury handbags]

your opinion is right! I support you! I will let my friends to read!

[Air Yeezy Sale]

Where there is for the most part a will , there is for the most part a way .( Thomas Edison , American inventor )

[Herve Leger]

The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for circumstances they want, and if they cannot find them, make them.
s

[Air Yeezy]

It is no use carrying out that which you like ; you have obtained to like that which you do .

[Classic tall ugg boots]

You provide enriched information for us,thank u.

[ugg retro cargo]

These kind of post are always inspiring and I prefer to read quality content so I happy to find many good point here in the post

[リアルマネートレード]

This is a great one..nice article, thanks for share with us…

[best replica watches]

I was actually looking for this resource a few weeks back. Thanks for sharing with us your wisdom.This will absolutely going to help me in my projects.

[cheap ralph lauren polo]

I was actually looking for this resource a few weeks back. Thanks for sharing with us your wisdom.This will absolutely going to help me in my projects.

[pergaminhobotas]

The nomination of the winner depends on the capability and spirit of the personality to finish the race.I like the post very much as it contain informative in knowledge.I like pics of Chelsea shares of the beauty of running in Madison

[Raiders Jersey]

Thanks for giving me Knowledge about,In this article you have told about Brute Force SEO.

[mynet sohbet]

ula ev cıye tanrım. bu zaman da kar yagısı başlamış.hoşık dıkandım ha

[Jets Jersey]

The article is very good, I like it very much.Here I learned a lot, then I will pay more attention to you.

[Tory Burch Outlet]

I have no problem dropping players. You have to persist, but it can never compromise the objectives of your team and the things you want to achieve.

[Cheap New Era Caps]

Island of wonderful Britain and Northern Ireland is genuinely a component of UK. united kingdom can be surrounded by Atlantic Ocean, North Sea, English funnel and Irish Sea. zhongchengmaoyi110post

[cheap new era hats]

No one can succeed without any hard work. Karl Max was successful, because he spent more than 30 years writing the book "Communist Manifesto"; Tomas Edison succeeded, because he had experimented thousands of times to find the best material for lights. Every success calls for hard work. If you want to suc-ceed, work hard first.zhongchengmaoyi110post

[louis vuitton handbags on sale]

your opinion is right! I support you! I will let my friends to read!

[hermes handbags on sale]

I support you! I will let my friends to read!

[replica handbags]

that you are not being ripped off. It helps if they have an address or a store that you can visit, should you have any issues with your purchase.

[iphone case]

that you are not being ripped off. It helps if they have an address or a store that you can visit, should you have any issues with your purchase.

[moncler outlet]

I also follow through Google Reader!

[LiSha]

The secret of high-heeled shoes, you know?
As for Women and jordan high heels, this is the inseparable relations, Tom Ford master evidence: "don't wear the high-heeled shoes woman how talk up sexy?" High heels and sex appeal is relevant? The answer is: "of course!"

[dr dre beats headphones]

Obama, since his first day in office - has been actively trying to restore US engagement and influence in Asia, especially in Southeast Asia

[baseball caps]

thank you for your article,My problem has been resolved.

http://www.discounthatsshop.com/

[Friv 2]

All the contents you mentioned in post is too good and can be very useful. I will keep it in mind, thanks for sharing the information keep updating, looking forward for more posts. Thanks

[duvet covers]

nice and great :)

[polnilec akumulatorjev]

nice blog.. very nice to know about this topic... Thank you so much for posting this great article, I am so interested on what I read, good and useful content

[ankara escort]

thnk you fro sahring

[how to twitter followers]

That was exactly what I was looking for. You have done a wonderful job communicating your message. Keep up the good work.