Warfare Welfare : The Not-So-Hidden Costs of America's Permanent War Economy

The United States was founded on the revolutionary ideals of liberty and democracy. However, in the view of Marcus G. Raskin and Gregory D. Squires, America's history of imperialistic ventures has compromised its standing internationally and undercut visions of a free and democratic nation domestically. This edited volume reveals how a permanent war economy has made the United States unable to advance democracy abroad and has worsened domestic problems. The editors draw from classical readings in political theory, from primary documents (including key court decisions), and from social science research to analyze such issues as the effect of militarization and combativeness on the everyday lives of Americans. The editors also address the dire connection among banking losses, the housing recession, the welfare/national security state, and the challenge of rebuilding America's infrastructure. Raskin and Squires ultimately conclude that only by making war an unattractive option and dismantling the warfare system can meaningful progress be made on the current foreign and domestic issues facing the United States. They also offer steps to replace the warfare system, outlining the ideological and material transformations necessary for peace. Students of political science, sociology, history, and law will find this a thought-provoking, forward-thinking contribution concerning America's future at home and abroad.