About Today's Discussion

November 22, 2009

by John Mueller (jmueller245@yahoo.com)

1. I was disappointed that we didn't get more than a cursory start on the various questions that were proposed.
2. Also, it would have helped to see the questions (along with the names of the questioners).
3. The repeated statement, that the US military is the only agency capable of doing the major building-up type of work in developing countries, becomes more scaring the longer I think about it. Thoughts include the idea that if the only tool you have is a hammer, then all problems.... I don't doubt their logistical and structural capabilities; I just question the assumptions that make them the agency of choice.
4. Give the meeting a B+ in terms of civility and respect; give it a D+ in terms of dialogue; with a second try, its grade may improve.