The War Drums Grow Louder

[Roy Eidelson]

Amid the growing reports of military planning against Iran, I thought readers might be interested in a psychological analysis of the warmongering we are now witnessing. As noted previously, I have recently completed a 10-minute online video entitled “Resisting the Drums of War.” It examines how the Bush administration has promoted the misguided and destructive war in Iraq by targeting five core concerns that often govern our lives--concerns about vulnerability, injustice, distrust, superiority, and helplessness. Looking ahead, the continuing occupation of Iraq--or an attack on Iran--will likely be sold to us in much the same way. The video examines these warmongering appeals and how to counter them. It’s available for viewing HERE. I welcome reactions.

[Skidmore]

1. What's that you say? I can't hear you.

Just a second. I have to get back to a very important bathroom sex thread. Like now!

[zanne]

2. More! More!

For awhile, I was transported back to the fifth grade, under my desk with my hands covering my head (Cuban missile crisis). I thought it was excellent. The way they take advantage of our all too-human frailties and use them against us is so obvious here. I would love to see a similar study about the Bush policy's use of old tactics from the 1950's-early 60's. Those of us who have lived long enough have had enough of nightmares from that period to revisit them now.

[unhappycamper]

3. That's a pretty good video.

Have you considered putting it on youtube? I appears that youtube is the way to get this kind of information out to the unwashed masses. Of course, you'll still face the horse/water problem.

Your arguments are good. The film clips give your story a lot of punch, *but* it's a little long. Granted, you've documented the issues well, but you're trying to reach people who typically have a short attention span. One possibility is to chop up your video into shorter segments for easier digestion.

Overall, 'well done'.