The recent uptick in global conflicts, from Ukraine to the Caribbean, is not a series of isolated events. It's a direct result of adversaries perceiving American weakness and acting on the historical principle that nations expand their influence until they are met with sufficient counter-force.
Society functions because humans cooperate based on shared beliefs like values or religion. These systems act as a shorthand for trust and alignment, allowing cooperation between strangers. This makes the erosion of a common value set the most significant threat to societal cohesion.
Using legal attacks against political opponents ("lawfare") is a societal gangrene. It forces the targeted party to retaliate, turning elections into existential battles for survival rather than policy contests. This high-stakes environment creates a powerful incentive to win at any cost, undermining democratic norms.
The controversy surrounding a second drone strike to eliminate survivors highlights a flawed moral calculus. Public objection focuses on the *inefficiency* of the first strike, not the lethal action itself. This inconsistent reasoning avoids the fundamental ethical question of whether the strike was justified in the first place.
Immigration policy must account for economic incentives. Unlike in the past, modern welfare states make immigration an economically rational choice for survival, not just opportunity. This shifts the dynamic, attracting individuals based on benefits rather than a desire to contribute without a safety net.
Trump's erratic approach isn't random; it's a strategy to create chaos and uncertainty. This keeps adversaries off-balance, allowing him to exploit openings that emerge, much like a disruptive CEO. He is comfortable with instability and uses it as a tool for negotiation and advantage.
Effective political propaganda isn't about outright lies; it's about controlling the frame of reference. By providing a simple, powerful lens through which to view a complex situation, leaders can dictate the terms of the debate and trap audiences within their desired narrative, limiting alternative interpretations.
Musk's success stems from his unique ability to attract hyper-intelligent, maniacally driven individuals. These people are drawn to his high-stakes, high-pressure environment, choosing to "burn out under Musk" rather than be bored elsewhere, creating an unparalleled human capital advantage.