Originally Posted by Monkeypunch
Actually, the war wasn't just about the oil...There's defense contractors to think about too! The good old Millitary-industrial complex that "ike" Eisenhower tried to warn us about back in the 50's is back in full swing!
Oh, I
know you didn't just misrepresent my boy Ike.
From the same speech (his farewell address) in which he used the now famous "military-industrial complex" line:
"A vital element in keeping the peace is our military establishment. Our arms must be mighty, ready for instant action, so that no potential aggressor may be tempted to risk his own destruction."
Eisenhower recognized that such a thing was necessary, but was generally distrustful of any government expansion...a fact which is often, I feel, abused by the left in matters like these. I suppose I also have a distaste for the old "HISTORICAL FIGURE X would've taken THIS side..." claims.
Originally Posted by Monkeypunch
Think about who's profiting since we invaded Iraq. Did they contribute money to the government? More than likely.
There are six primary contractors, I believe. From 1999 to 2002, they gave a combined $2.4 million to the GOP, and $1.2 million to the Dems (I presume it's standard to play both sides). This $2.4 million made up less than 2% of the $190+ million that the Bush/Cheney campaign raised during the last election.
Of course, even if they'd given more (or even if you consider the sum substantial as-is), that still leaves us with one crucial question: which came first, the donation, or the policy? Did they construct policies to please those who had helped them, or did people help them because they knew they'd be pleased with their policies? The former is shady...the latter is not, and is rather the entire point of campaign contributions: to support the candidates who will implement what you believe are the best policies.
Originally Posted by Monkeypunch
Do you think the government really gives a sh*t about the poor oppressed Iraqis? they don't even care about the poor people in this country! They went into this knowing there were no WMD's and now our Elected (and selected) Officials are scrambling to find a cover story to hide the fact that it's all a sham. The war is real, the deaths are real, but the reasons for it aren't.
1 - Why are motivations more important to you than results? And even if you do believe the war was fought for selfish reasons, do you honestly believe those in power are so cold-hearted so as to be completely indifferent to Iraqi suffering?
2 - I think it's a stretch to imply that they
knew they wouldn't find any WMDs. Making such a HUGE deal out of something they know is a lie is a bonehead move, politicially, and one that the administration is probably too savvy to make. You don't get into The White House on luck...I think the worst you can say about the WMD claim, if none are found, is that they were mistaken.
Closed Thread
thanks
