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> What freedom and democracy? Our side was a ruthless dictatorship too. It was less bad, and had potential to be more good. As I noted, it was imperfect. > Y
by wtbob 11y ago
> What freedom and democracy? Our side was a ruthless dictatorship too.
It was less bad, and had potential to be more good. As I noted, it was imperfect.
> You make a good point about violence sometimes begin necessary. But making that point in the context of Vietnam is weird. It's the poster child for unnecessary wars, and for good reason.
Thanks for your credit; I really appreciate it.
I completely disagree that Vietnam was an unnecessary war, but it's perhaps indicative of the extent to which its supposed lack of need has become common wisdom that folks have taken issue not with my broader points about violence & pacifists but with the narrow point of Vietnam.
- mikeash 11y agoA less bad ruthless dictatorship is a pretty long way from "freedom and democracy," even softened with imperfection. And if that's what you're using to justify years of war, enslaving young men and forcing them to fight, and killing hundreds of thousands of civilians, you're going to have a really tough road to travel. I don't think it's a surprise that disagreement with you is focused on Vietnam. True pacifism is pretty rare. Most people will agree with the broader point that war is sometimes necessary.
- mcguire 11y ago"I completely disagree that Vietnam was an unnecessary war,..." The argument that Vietnam was an unnecessary war for the US is heavily bolstered by the fact that we lost and nothing really bad happened.