theguardian.com
9/11's Enduring Legacy: How the "War on Terror" Reshaped America
Richard Beck's book, an alternative national history of the US since 9/11, argues that the "war on terror" caused an estimated 900,000 deaths and profoundly shaped American society, politics, and foreign policy, contributing to Donald Trump's presidency.
- What are the most significant long-term consequences of the "war on terror" on American society and its global standing?
- Richard Beck's book argues that the September 11th attacks transformed the US into a more aggressive and anxious nation, leading to increased militarism and authoritarianism. The "war on terror" resulted in an estimated 900,000 deaths, including nearly 400,000 civilians, according to Beck.
- How did the presidencies of George W. Bush and Barack Obama contribute to the continuation and evolution of the "war on terror"?
- The book connects the "war on terror" to a broader pattern of maintaining American global supremacy and internal status quo, arguing that it's less about terrorism and more about managing domestic and foreign discontent with the US economic model. This is exemplified by the actions of both Bush and Obama administrations, despite their differing political ideologies.
- To what extent does the book successfully connect the "war on terror" to broader historical trends of American exceptionalism and the pursuit of global hegemony?
- Beck suggests that the desire for revenge following 9/11 has been so powerful that it continues to shape US politics, even enabling Donald Trump's presidency and his nationalistic policies. The long-term impact includes increased surveillance, a more authoritarian state, and difficulties for minority groups, particularly Muslims.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the negative consequences of 9/11 and the subsequent "war on terror." While acknowledging some positive aspects of Obama's presidency, the overall tone leans towards portraying the post-9/11 era as a period of increased authoritarianism, intolerance, and militarism. The headline question, "Almost a quarter of a century on, is the US still being shaped by 9/11?", already sets a tone that suggests a lasting negative impact. The book's description as an "alternative national history" implies a counter-narrative to a more positive or conventional view.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective, although terms like "ruthless enforcer" (regarding Reagan) and "draconian and crudely nationalistic" (regarding Trump) carry some negative connotations. However, these are used within the context of a critical analysis and are arguably supported by the evidence presented. The author uses direct quotes effectively to maintain neutrality.
Bias by Omission
The review omits discussion of the Reagan administration's "war on drugs" as a potential precursor to the post-9/11 "war on terror." This omission weakens the analysis by neglecting a comparable historical example of an expansive, authoritarian government campaign against a perceived global threat driven by vengeance and nationalism. The absence of this context limits the reader's ability to fully assess the uniqueness and evolution of post-9/11 policies.
False Dichotomy
The review doesn't present a false dichotomy, but it does present a somewhat simplistic explanation of the "war on terror" as solely about maintaining American global supremacy and internal status quo. While this is a significant factor, it might oversimplify the complex motivations and contributing elements behind US foreign and domestic policies post-9/11.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article details how the US response to 9/11 led to increased authoritarianism, surveillance, and erosion of civil liberties, negatively impacting peace, justice, and strong institutions. The expansion of executive powers, increased use of torture, and targeting of minority groups all undermine the rule of law and democratic principles.