Making the Forever War

Brief Summary

Making the Forever War by Marilyn Blatt Young is a compelling collection of essays and articles that delve into the enduring nature of U.S. militarism. The book examines American military conflicts spanning from the Cold War era through Korea, Vietnam, and the more contemporary arenas of Iraq and Afghanistan. Young's work questions the paradox of a nation perpetually at war while its citizens remain largely indifferent. Through meticulously researched essays, she explores the covert transformations of warfare, such as drone strikes and aerial bombings, which detach the physical proximity of combat from everyday American consciousness.

Main Themes and Topics

One of the central themes in Making the Forever War is the persistent yet increasingly abstract nature of American military involvement worldwide. Young explores how the evolution of warfare tactics, particularly through remote technologies like drones, has rendered military action both omnipresent and seemingly invisible to the general public. This theme is intertwined with the critique of American imperialism, highlighting the ways in which the United States maintains its global hegemony through military means.

Another prominent topic is the role of public awareness—or lack thereof—concerning continuous U.S. military engagements. Young posits that the American public's detachment is not a consequence but a contributing factor to the perpetuation of these conflicts. Her essays challenge readers to reconsider the societal narrative that normalizes perpetual warfare as a backdrop to everyday life.

Writing Style and Tone

Marilyn B. Young's writing is scholarly yet accessible, combining rigorous historical analysis with a captivating narrative style. Her tone is both critical and reflective, urging the reader to engage deeply with the complexities of American military history. The book is a testament to Young's ability to articulate intricate historical and political concepts in a way that resonates both with academics and general readers alike.

Awards and Recognition

Though Making the Forever War does not list specific awards, Marilyn Blatt Young's contributions to the field of history have been widely recognized. Her work is respected for its insightful examination of American militarism, and this posthumous collection serves as a significant addition to the discourse on U.S. global power dynamics.

Criticism

While Making the Forever War is acclaimed for its thorough and thought-provoking analysis, some critics may argue that the book's focus could benefit from a more detailed exploration of contemporary conflicts. Additionally, given that the book is a collection of essays, some readers might find a repetitiveness in the themes addressed across different pieces. Nonetheless, these criticisms do not overshadow the book's valuable insights into the nature of perpetual U.S. militarism and its cultural implications.