Halliburton's Army

Main Themes and Topics

"Halliburton's Army" by Pratap Chatterjee delves into the intricate nexus between corporate interests, government decisions, and military operations, focusing primarily on Halliburton's role during the Iraq War. The book explores themes of corporate malfeasance, political cronyism, and the privatization of military operations. Chatterjee details the extent to which Halliburton served as the logistical backbone of the U.S. occupation in Iraq, examining the contracts awarded to the corporation and the political maneuvers involved. Another critical theme is the human cost of privatization, highlighting the exploitation and unsafe working conditions faced by low-paid, unskilled workers, primarily from Third World countries. The narrative extends beyond Iraq to include Halliburton’s operations in other global hotspots, underscoring the pervasive nature of corporate influence in military affairs.

Writing Style and Tone

Pratap Chatterjee employs an investigative and journalistic style in "Halliburton's Army," providing a meticulous and detailed examination of corporate conduct. His tone is unapologetically critical and incisive, aimed at exposing the malpractices and ethical breaches of Halliburton. Chatterjee's approach is both analytical and narrative, combining factual reporting with compelling storytelling to engage the reader. The book is structured to guide the reader through complex topics with clarity, ensuring that even those unfamiliar with the intricacies of corporate and military operations can grasp the salient points.

Criticism

While "Halliburton's Army" has been lauded for its in-depth and critical analysis, some critics argue that its narrative may at times feel overwhelming due to the extensive details and breadth of topics covered. The book's unrelenting focus on Halliburton's negative aspects might also leave some readers seeking a more balanced perspective. Nonetheless, these criticisms do not detract from the importance of Chatterjee's work in shedding light on critical issues concerning corporate power and military operations.

Brief Summary

"Halliburton's Army" offers a thorough exposé of Halliburton's business practices, particularly its involvement in the Iraq War. Pratap Chatterjee provides an inside look at how the corporation functioned as a crucial component of the U.S. military's logistical framework, examining the political and corporate strategies that allowed it to secure and eventually lose significant contracts. The book also covers Halliburton's expansion into other global regions and the associated ethical issues, including labor exploitation and lack of accountability. Through his comprehensive research, Chatterjee uncovers the significant human and moral costs of privatizing military functions.