Washington Rules

America's Path to Permanent War

By: Andrew Bacevich

Narrated by: Sean Runnette

The bestselling author of The Limits of Power critically examines the Washington consensus on national security and why it must change

For the last half century, as administrations have come and gone, the fundamental assumptions about America's military policy have remained unchanged: American security requires the United States (and us alone) to maintain a permanent armed presence around the globe, to prepare our forces for military operations in far-flung regions, and to be ready to intervene anywhere at any time. In the Obama era, just as in the Bush years, these beliefs remain unquestioned gospel.

In a vivid, incisive analysis, Andrew J. Bacevich succinctly presents the origins of this consensus, forged at a moment when American power was at its height. He exposes the preconceptions, biases, and habits that underlie our pervasive faith in military might, especially the notion that overwhelming superiority will oblige others to accommodate America's needs and desires—whether for cheap oil, cheap credit, or cheap consumer goods. And he challenges the usefulness of our militarism as it has become both unaffordable and increasingly dangerous.

Though our politicians deny it, American global might is faltering. This is the moment, Bacevich argues, to reconsider the principles which shape American policy in the world—to acknowledge that fixing Afghanistan should not take precedence over fixing Detroit. Replacing this Washington consensus is crucial to America's future, and may yet offer the key to the country's salvation.

A MUST read for anyone interested in politics

Good insight into the workings of Washington relative to war.

Requires strong participation of Americans to be citizens in a manner going back to the revolutionary days.

Great entree, needs pepper.

This “listen” is not riveting. Not even close. But the content is so compelling and so relevant to the events in the last ½ century, I am bumping it up a star. It discusses our (USA) state of endless war mostly from a military and political perspective. It could have benefited from a more in-depth discussion on how pressure from private industry also perpetuates our dilemma. If this content could be transformed into a riveting best seller it could change the world.

Permanent war and insolvency...thanks Washington

This is not a book of partisan politics but if you still think there is any significant difference between the Democrat and Republican parties you need to read this book. How could such an incompetent and corrupt group of federal politicians squander such tremendous wealth, currently and into the foreseeable future? This book gives a historical and current perspective of where we stand politically and militarily. It is not a happy or encouraging view. Where are the statesmen who undestand how to run a nation for the national good and not for very limited self-interest, not in Washington. This book is very well written and interesting.

Must Read.

What made the experience of listening to Washington Rules the most enjoyable?

Concise analysis, based on facts.

Any additional comments?

I wish that the presidential candidates would read or listen to this book, but since they probably will not, at least you can so as to be better informed.

Washington Rules

An excellent book. I'd like to recommend Col. Bracevich be appointed as the next Secretary of Defense upon Robert Gates' retirement. He'll need a whip and a chair (and possibly a few good funerals) to get the job done, but we'd all be better off for it.