The US and the Defeat in Afghanistan: What an Unhealthy Elite Means

Abstract

The end of the war in Afghanistan and, essentially, the entire US misadventure in the Middle East marks the conclusion of a clearly defined period in global history. While it might take several generations before the real impact of the debacle can be fully assessed, the defeat says a great deal about the sate of the American elite and political class. Historian Dmitry Shlapentokh of Indiana University South Bend argues that, with the drums of war beating again over Ukraine,it is worth recognizing that the motivations and interests of leaders and their revered advisors and experts do not often coincide with those of the country or society.