The Causes of War and the Spread of Peace - Azar Gat

This review has been submitted to Soldier Magazine.

Title: The Causes of War and the Spread of Peace

Author: Azar Gat

ISBN: 978-0-19-879502-5

Publisher: Oxford UP

Year: 2017

Hardcover

Pages: 303

The author has undertaken an analysis of war as a fundamental aspect of man’s psychological development. He suggests that conflict is in fact a manifestation of societies need for: culling of the weak, power, resources and space. The first world has developed to the point where these needs have been met without the need to resort to physical violence; diminishing the requirement for war. Non-first world countries do not have this level of development and are still subject to the more basic needs. Globalization means that the challenges of these countries cannot be contained within their boundaries. A thoughtful and well balanced analysis of modern international challenges.

The Hill - Ray Rigby

Title: The Hill

Author: Ray Rigby

Publisher: Endeavour Press

Year: 2015

E-book

Pages: 201

The story of The Hill unfolds in a British detention barracks somewhere in the desert mid-way through World War II. This is a story of the dynamics of interaction between the staff members, the prisoners and the environment within which they find themselves set against the artificial backdrop of the war itself. A simple narrative on the surface belies an incredibly complex storyline with deep nuance and shade. This is concurrently a story of human survival, leadership and the psychology of control and power.

It is not simply a story of the abuse of that power however, but also a study in the use of coercion, discipline and motivation to mold soldiers and men. Enforced with a steady and guided hand, the techniques used by the camp Sergeant-Major and his NCO’s are efficient and very effective. However, the line that is walked is a narrow one and it is very easy to slide into destructive behaviours. The book is a treatise on the critical importance of professionalism and unit discipline and the pitfalls of allowing complacency to take hold.

The novel is written such that the perspective of the prisoners as well as the staff are revealed. Within an environment of controllers and controlees, there is a unique dynamic that exists where each side has a defined role to play, within set guidelines, some written and some simply understood. Rigby has done an outstanding job at recreating that balance and iterating what happens when there is a flaw or weakness in the fabric of the relationship.

The story really is a study of the human condition within the controlled environment of a wartime military prison. The reader is able to study and examine the interaction of the participants from a third person perspective and one readily comes to the conclusion that each of the protagonists are prisoners in their own unique way. It is in this way that the brilliance of Rigby’s narrative shines through; the characters are a reflection of the good and bad in each of us.

This is a gripping story and an outstanding cerebral study. To be truly appreciated it must be read with an open mind and a critical eye. This book should be studied by students of leadership, the military arts and psychologists. It is a very thought -provoking and challenging work.  

The Dark Net - Jamie Bartlett

Title: The Dark Net

Author: Jamie Bartlett

ISBN: 978-1-61219-521-6

Publisher: Melville House

Year: 2014

Softcover

Pages: 306

Photos/ Maps: 0

One of the most profound initiators of change and social influence for the last two generation has been by far the internet and the reach and access that it provides to society at all levels. More than just a repository of information, it also serves as a platform for anyone, regardless of education, economic stature or social background, to promote their vision of the world and to act as architects of their own brand of change.

Bartlett’s book discusses what he identifies as the Dark Net; “internet underworlds set apart yet connected….worlds of freedom and anonymity, where users say and do what they like, often uncensored, unregulated and outside of society’s norms”. The key here is that it looks at the impact that anonymity has on the behaviours of people. In a world where less and less personal information is perceived to be private, the dark net provides an environment where society’s standards and rules may be cast aside.

Why is this significant? Bartlett’s work at first blush appears to be a rather superficial discussion of the concerns raised periodically by media and governments about the challenges posed by an unregulated body; however, as one moves forward in the book, it is clear that Bartlett’s analysis is both insightful and challenging to conventional thinking. He highlights not just practical questions surrounding issues of Net management and accessibility but also delves into areas with much broader implications; touching upon the fundamentals of our societies and perceptions.

This book is not an esoteric treatise on philosophy, rather a practical and tangible discussion on real world issues being played out online. Questions relating to the use of bitcoin on national economies, amateur pornography as practical revenue generation, sales and marketing of drugs and other items, privacy and government oversight are all discussed using interviews with real world people. Additionally, the ongoing passionate debates between those who feel that technology and the web represent the gateway to the ultimate evolution of man (so called transhumanists) or its downfall (anarcho-primitivists) are presented. Finally, the role that the web plays in facilitating “self-help” in controversial areas such as medicine, suicide, self-mutilation and anorexia is discussed.

The strength of this book lies in its non-judgement of the web, its explanation of the terms and concepts of this aspect of the Net, its balanced presentation of arguments for and against each of its areas of research and finally the questions that it leaves the readers to contemplate. It is for the reader to consider where he or she falls in terms of opinion. This is an excellent introduction and discussion of the challenges and potential existing online. Further, whether one likes it or not, it is the future and what generations of people are being influenced by. In order to better appreciate those things that drive modern decision making and activities, it is critical to understand the motivations and influences accessible to all ages and backgrounds. Not just parents, but leaders in all fields would do well to take the time to acquaint themselves with this world.

D Day Through German Eyes Vol 1 and 2 - Holger Eckhertz

Title: D Day Through German Eyes Vol 1 and 2

Author: Holger Eckhertz

ASIN: B00VX372UE

Publisher: DTZ History Publications

Year: 2015

E Book

Pages: 141/168

Photos/Maps: 0

I have made the decision to review Herr Eckhertz’s two books together as they are of the same theme and presentation. During WW2, the author’s grandfather, Dieter Eckhertz, was a military journalist for the German military publications ‘Die Wehrmacht’ and ‘Signal’.  In 1944, he was tasked with writing a series of articles on the Atlantic Wall in the West and, in the process of preparing, visited many of the units stationed in that region. Following the war, in 1954, while no longer a reporter, he decided to follow up with individuals from those units he had visited in order to capture their recollections and experiences of D-Day now that the passage of time had provided some distance between the events. The results are testimonials that are still raw, disturbing, enlightening, brutally honest and at the same time deeply thought provoking. The interviews were never published until they came into the hands of Dieter’s grandson who has done an excellent job of presenting them to the modern audience.

Each interview is presented as a series of questions relating to the interviewees experience primarily on the day of 6 June; thus the narrative is more of a discussion vice a story. Additionally, a majority of the men interviewed are private soldiers, not senior officers or Non-commissioned ranks and therefore the reader begins to appreciate these ‘lower level’ responses and perspectives.

There are a number of themes which I found very interesting that came out of these interviews as the men looked back on their experiences. These included a sense that they were defending a ‘United Europe’, frustration that the Allies were distracting them from the real threat which was communism, an initial confidence in their ability to hold the line, shock at the capability of the Allies to bring armour in such large numbers across the channel and disbelief at the violence of the air and sea assault.

Additionally, the testimonies bring up a number of other extremely interesting subjects such as the Allies use of phosphorous weapons and its impact upon the defenders, the Allied ‘flame tank’, the German use of the ‘Goliath’, the use of foreign workers in the building the Western Wall, the extensive appearance of Russian and Polish soldiers fighting for the Germans and what happened to them following capture and the interaction between the German soldiers and the French population.

Perhaps the most remarkable interview was with a specialist weapons officer who discussed in detail the development of a weapon by the Germans that would be categorized today as a FAE (fuel air explosive). This weapon has enormous destructive power mainly centered upon the massive shock wave that it generates when detonated. The German system, code named Taifun (Typhoon) B, was deployed to Normandy and was to be utilized against the Allied armour concentration at St Lo but was fortunately destroyed by a random artillery barrage just before it was launched. 

There are some questions that would be worthwhile following up for clarification and accuracy. One centres upon the interviewees use of the term 'Tobruk' bunker to describe their 2 man prefabricated machine gun posts; the use of this term was not a German but an Allied one. Additionally, while I have found reference to German development and practice of coal-dust and fuel mixtures on the Eastern front, this book was the only reference that I have found that refers to a FAE style weapon deployed at D-Day. These two books are only available as e-books but I would recommend them both for their content and presentation. I found them to be not only highly informative but also forthright depictions of these soldier’s experiences. Certainly, a guide for further discussion.

Clan Cleansing in Somalia: The Ruinous Legacy of 1991 - Lidwien Kapteijns

Title: Clan Cleansing in Somalia: The Ruinous Legacy of 1991

Author: Lidwien Kapteijns

ISBN: 978-0-812-22319-4

Publisher: University of Pennsylvania

Year: 2013

Softcover

Pages: 308

Photos/Maps: 0/1

The ongoing trials and tribulations of the Horn of Africa are well known; however, the history and cause of the degree of dislocation and ongoing state collapse is not nearly as well understood. Kapteijns has encapsulated in his four chapter analysis of the history, causes and ongoing legacy up to 1991 (the height of the genocide) a succinct and detailed synopsis of the Somalian tragedy.

His first chapter undertakes a study of the reaction of the Somali people to their environment through the medium of poetry. While interesting, it strikes the reader as odd and somewhat out of step with the rest of the book. For those who would see the resilient capacity of the human spirit to overcome incredible adversity, it is an interesting view.

The book really engages with the second chapter which discusses the reign of President Barre and the actions that he took during the 21 years that he ‘governed’,  that both secured his hold on power while concurrently undermining it and ultimately causing his downfall. The watchwords of his administration were corruption and division. He undertook a deliberate policy of dividing the clans in order to deflect attention away from his own dishonesty. By doing so he created the conditions of deep hatred and distrust of not only his government, his clan bt also the other numerous clans within Somalia. The author undertakes a noteworthy analysis of this period that sets a clear tone for the follow-on chapters that discuss the actual descent into societal chaos. The clear take away from the historical review is the setting of the preconditions for collapse and the incredible self-centred hubris of the clan leadership.

Chapter three is where the author discusses the collapse of the government, the fighting in Mogadishu and the absolute loss of any veneer of civilized behavior amongst the combatants. The outright dismissal of any notion of non-combatant and the use of terror aimed at clan cleansing (through the use of systemic rape, murder, torture, theft and starvation) is appalling. Kapteijns does not use sensationalism to pass on his points; the experiences through vignettes and fact as gathered by international agencies are presented in a stark, unvarnished manner that reinforces the horror. The capacity for base level violence and behavior amongst people and the self serving attitude from those that wish not the best for the people of Somalia but for themselves, is revealed in a manner that is all the more poignant for its  austerity.

Chapter four pursues a deeper analysis of the reasons for the utter breakdown of society and the deliberate targeting of non-combatants by the militias. It is a revealing study into the nature of human reaction when law and order is stripped away and the utter helplessness of the elderly, young and destitute is taken complete advantage of for personal gain. What is additionally disturbing is the revelation that regional powers took advantage of Somalia’s refugees as well.

As a means of understanding the background and psychology of the conflict between the government and the militias followed by intra-militia fighting, this book is a critical read. While it focuses solely upon the  events leading up to the utter slaughter of 1991, it presents a excellent synopsis of the conditions which have prevented a resolution of the Somali conflict to the present day. Kapteijns has done a superb job at explaining this tragedy in terms that are accessible to a wide audience. His bibliography is extensive and his research thorough. This is disturbing read but critical to the student of African history.

The ISIS Apocalypse - William McCants

This review has been provided to British Army Review.

Title: The ISIS Apocalypse

Author: William McCants

ISBN: 978-1-250-08090-5

Publisher: St Martin’s Press

Year: 2015

Hardcover

Pages: 242

Photos/Maps: 0

The War on Terror has prompted the drafting of hundred’s of books covering all facets of the cause and personalities surrounding ISIS, Al-Qaeda, the Taliban etc; however, one area that has received little to no ‘accessible – to the layman’ interpretation has been a religious analysis of the driving doctrine behind the various groups. McCant’s book covers the background and history of ISIS but he also pays a significant amount of attention to the Islamic canon, drawing upon his expertise in Islamic religious studies (he has a PhD in Near Eastern Studies and speaks and reads Arabic fluently).

Islam as a religion is an extremely complex and confusing faith; subject to interpretation by scholars going back hundreds of years. As McCants points out if you want to find text promoting peaceful co-existence you will find it just as you will find text advocating violent extremism against non-believers. The author’s primary strength lies in his ability to quote primary-source Arabic text to assist in his explanation of this to the layman. Further, his talent at presenting this text within the context of the greater narrative in such a way as to facilitate easy interpretation lends both credence and accessibility to his account.

The challenge of dealing with the myriad of organizations that make up the adversaries in the War on Terror,  is exacerbated by the underlying motivators that drive them and set the tone for their conduct and goals. Thus it is that the extremists are not a homogeneous organization but deeply fractured and, as often as not, fighting one another rather than secular forces. McCants goes to great lengths in explaining this and underlying the fact that the goals and methods of ISIS are neither condoned nor in common with those of Al-Qaeda and Bin Laden. This is critical to understand because the West tends to lump these organizations together in error as their means and methods are fundamentally different.

He also goes on to explain how the population of the Middle East’s perspective on the war has changed over the course of the conflict. Many secular Muslims who initially viewed the war in terms of power politics have now come to see the conflict in terms of the religious interpretation of the Islamic “End Times” prophecy. The significant upheavals of the last decade combined with the deep divide between Shia and Sunni as well as the ongoing role of the “New Crusaders” have heralded, for many, the coming apocalypse. This message resonates with the international Muslim community as well as locals due the violence and tyranny in the very regions prophesized in the Muslim texts.

McCants book fills a void missing in many of the narratives on ISIS and its rise: that of the religious underpinnings justifying its actions and the connection this has with the local population. His book is reasoned and balanced. His deep understanding of Islam combined with his third person perspective make for a book well worth the time to read and ponder.

The Red Army and the Great Terror: Stalin’s Purge of the Soviet Military - Peter Whitewood

Title: The Red Army and the Great Terror: Stalin’s Purge of the Soviet Military

Author: Peter Whitewood

ISBN: 978-0-7006-2117-0

Publisher: University of Kansas Press

Year: 2015

Hardcover

Pages: 360

Photos/Maps: 0

The Great Terror of 1937-1938 that resulted in the decimation of the Red Army’s Officer corps at the hands of their own government, has remained an enigma in the years following; why would Stalin undertake this action when he strongly suspected war was imminent? Popular conception has it that the German’s, in an unprecedented intelligence coup, planted material that implicated the Red Army leadership in subversive activity and therefore initiated the purge. Whitewood’s research shows that, while threat of foreign subversion was definitely a factor on the purge, the seeds had been planted long before, in the decades following the Russian revolution. Whitewood has drawn upon previously classified records to shed light upon the events and activities that set the stage for one of the greatest acts of self-mutilation that a nation has undertaken in recent history.

The author traces the civil-military relationship in the nascent Soviet Union throughout the 20’s and 30’s. His research is comprehensive and in-depth and shows a difficult and, at times, challenging interaction between the two entities. Policies such as collectivization of the agriculture industry in the 1920’s stressed the Army as a majority of its soldiers were from farming communities. Additionally, the necessity to integrate former ‘White” specialist officers into its ranks following the civil war left a lingering concern regarding loyalty; moreover, the stresses within the Soviet hierarchy between the Trotsky and Stalin camps left those officers who had been supporters of Trotsky with black marks against them. Finally, the lingering discomfort of the Soviet government, built upon a foundation of communism which eschewed a professional army, with the necessary evil (in their eyes) of maintaining a military capability consistently underlined and always coloured the relationship.

A perfect storm developed for the Red Army as a government, rife with insecurity, built upon a structure that promoted interdepartmental rivalry, in an international political environment which exacerbated internal tensions and fears of espionage was led by a brutally ‘real politique’ leader who ruled with no checks or balances upon his power. Whitewood shows that perception became reality and a government, already predisposed to find disloyalty, was able to prove their suspicions through the use of torture to elicit confessions, build cases based upon guilt by association and a legal system which rubber-stamped convictions. These stressors built over the decades leading up to 1937 saw minor purges and low level sweeps of the military until finally exploding in a flurry of denunciations, convictions, executions and imprisonment of literally thousands of officers on the flimsiest of evidence.

Whitewood’s book is an excellent analysis of the events and environment within the Red Army and Soviet government during this period. It seems incredible that the military hierarchy would allow itself to be decimated as it was with such acquiescence. I have issue with only two aspects of Whitewood’s excellent book. First, I feel that it would have been beneficial to have had more discussion on the response of the senior levels within the Red Army as things degenerated for them. Individuals such as Tukhashevsky, Uborevich and Iakir must have been aware of the environment given their high rank and yet Whitewood does not discuss their responses or actions to try and counter the allegations being leveled against them. Additionally, the author does not emphasize, as a possible motive, the ongoing competition for influence and power between the Army and the NKVD. This had to be a driving force in the aggressive and brutal means by which senior officers in the Army were sacrificed.  

The book overall is a chilling read and provides an outstanding evaluation of the human psyche in an environment in which leadership unchecked combined with a siege mentality results in perception and rumour being the basis for justice. His book contains a plethora of excellent references and a comprehensive bibliography. Strongly recommended.

The Martian - Andy Weir

Title: The Martian

Author: Andy Weir

ASIN: B00EMXBDMA

Publisher: Broadway Books

Year: 2011

E-Book

Pages: 369

The Martian is a fascinating read of survival, mental and physical strength and endurance as well as a noteworthy study of the resilience of the human spirit. It holds many lessons for both the military and civilian leadership of today on a number of levels. The novel is the story of an astronaut who has been inadvertently left behind on Mars when his crew mates have to undertake an emergency evacuation. This sets the conditions within which the book unfolds as NASA, his former crew and the main character strive to overcome the numerous challenges that both survival and potential rescue throw up. The central theme of the book is the necessity to overcome and persevere.

As indicated earlier there are a number of takeaways for the modern leader:

1.       Prioritize: you cannot address all of your challenges concurrently, rank them and face them off in order; otherwise they will become overwhelming;

2.       Keep your mind active: regardless of how you do it, you must not allow yourself to become mentally lazy. You must keep engaged or you risk lethargy;

3.       Do not wish for what you do not have: wishful thinking is a luxury that leads to self-pity. Focus on the reality in front of you and be realistic;

4.       Acknowledge the reality around you: do not close your eyes to your situation, face it head-on however difficult that may be.

5.       Life is not fair: life owes you nothing and you cannot pretend otherwise. Success or failure depends upon your attitude and approach;

6.       Train hard and anticipate failure: failure in training is one of the building blocks to success as it teaches us respect for our environment, humility and determination;

7.        Study: you never know when the information you are looking at will become necessary;

8.       Plan to one degree of What if?: do not try and anticipate all possible outcomes to an action. This will preclude you making any decisions. Accept that your initial plan may not be successful and considered options but not at the expense of a decision.

9.       Accept risk.

10.     Goals: Set reasonable goals for yourself and focus on meeting them.

11.      Psychological Strength: Understand that, as a leader, many decisions that you have to make will be difficult and may, with hindsight, not be correct. That is life and part of the responsibility of accepting a leadership role. You must have the psychological strength to carry on and lead regardless of the popularity (or lack thereof) of your decisions.

Weir has written a very engaging book. It is dynamic and readable; mixing humour with message and is thus both uplifting as well as a testament to the human spirit. The messages it conveys are very relevant and easily grasped. I recommend this for leaders regardless of profession.

Strange Defeat - Marc Bloch

Title: Strange Defeat

Author: Marc Bloch

ISBN: 978-8-087-83083-3

Publisher: Important Books

Year: 2013

Softcover

Pages: 133

Photographs/maps: 0

Between July and August 1940, Captain Marc Bloch, a fuel services officer in the French Army, drafted his testament of the cause of the French defeat at the hands of the German Wehrmacht. Bloch had seen active service in the trenches during the First World War and was a historian/professor during the interwar years. His service in the Second World War was undertaken at both operational and Army level HQ's where he was privy to the workings of the highest level of French Army command. With ample military experience and the eye of a professional historian, he was able to to discern much in the confusion that he witnessed around him.

His book is a poignant and insightful analysis of why the French Army and, by extension, the French Government and people were so thoroughly and soundly beaten when all of the potential existed for French victory. He addresses multiple aspects of the French armed forces and French society for, as he points out, there was no one issue but a combination thereof, that brought the house of cards down. He readily acknowledges that he did not have ready access to the 'behind the scenes' machinations of decision making but he did have a keen eye and a myriad of experience that gives his analysis validity and credibility.

He is both relentless and balanced in his exposure of the flaws that plagued the French leadership and HQ; he spares no level of command, but it is evident that his purpose is not to discredit on a personal level but to reveal on a professional level. His observations cross the spectrum of what today would be called the 'J-Staff'; some of his more telling observations follow:

1. Communication: A lack of common operating picture within the HQ's and a failure to pass information to the levels where it was needed in a timely manner. Also a tendency to hoard information;

2. Administration vs Operations: Administration trumped operational decision making. An emphasis on process as opposed to results. 

3. Hubris: An assumption of superiority and a failure to emphasize continuous learning. A failure to appreciate the changes that technology had brought to the battlefield and a reliance upon the "way it has always been done'.

4. Education: A failure to adapt and to take advantage of the opportunities to adjust and develop doctrine before the conflict started (the Germans used blitzkrieg techniques in Poland but the French ignored the lessons to be learned despite an 8 month gap between Poland and France).

5. Command: An inability of the commanders to adjust to the dynamic environment of modern operations as a result of experience, training and paradigm shortfalls. Bloch quotes a corps commander to Gen Blanchard (commander of the 1st Army): "Do what you want Mon General but do something!"; stated in Bloch's presence.

6. National Expectations/institutions: A rise amongst the population of a level of expectation for self (as opposed to national) service exacerbated by both government and media playing off political and economic fault lines resulting in stagnation and a psychological 'softening' of the population. A diminishment of critical thinking within scientific and centres of higher education.

These represent a few of the myriad of observations raised by Bloch. Unlike historians writing on the collapse of France in the past tense, Bloch's work is based on experience and having lived the drama. His comments are based upon his personal experiences and views. Bloch's work is a challenge to France to take a hard, unvarnished look at its performance in the war. Unfortunately, many of his views are prevalent in the military's and societies of today including a tendency to emphasize a success without recognizing where significant weaknesses existed. His narrative lacks perhaps some of the 'finishing' of a modern author's work but his points are clear and devastating; our modern institutions and commands ignore his lessons at their peril.

Dancing in the Glory of Monsters - Jason K Stearns

Title: Dancing in the Glory of Monsters

Author: Jason K Stearns

Publisher: PublicAffairs

ISBN: 978-1-61039-1078

Year: 2012

Softcover

Pages: 380 

The West is very aware of the horror of the Rwandan genocide that took place between April and July, 1994; over 800,000 people (mainly Tutsi's) were slaughtered. What is not well known, indeed hardly commented or reported upon, was the follow-on war and genocide that took place in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire) between 1995-2001. This 'Great War' of Africa involved 5 countries and resulted in an estimated 1.7 million dead, untold wounded, millions displaced and hundreds of thousands raped and ravaged. Stearns book is an effort to redress this shortfall and it makes for dark and difficult reading.  

Stearns contends that the fundamental reasons for the lack of interest on the part of the West to this agony in Africa centres upon two main themes: one represents the complexity of the war and the causes thereof and two is the fact that it was far away from the West and of little immediate impact. The first cause is indicative, the author contends, of a modern world interested in quick and simple explanations and the second, a media that both recognizes and enables that simplistic approach. 

He is absolutely correct in his contention that the underlying causes of the war were complex; indeed, there were no clear 'good guys' or 'bad guys'; all players were both. Sadly, the one consistency were the victims of personal, national and tribal greed. Commencing with a history of the region, Stearns takes the reader through the tangle of the ensuing years with candid interviews of key players and evaluations of the political and societal conditions that enabled the tragedy to unfold. His eye for detail and the human condition paint, for the reader, a depressingly predictable pattern of idealism, corruption and acceptance.

This is a very disturbing rendition of the events of this period, made all the more so by the complete indifference of the West. The West does play a key role in developing the historical conditions for the tragedy; however, responsibility lies equally with the Africans in taking advantage of those vulnerable members of their societies. There does exist some aspects however, that leave the reader with cause for hope, primarily centring upon the resilience of the human spirit. The Africans repeatedly move forward, not without rancour or memory, but in recognition of the need to rebuild.  

The complexity of the causes and unfolding of this war are indeed manifest. Stearns has done an outstanding  job of presenting the drama with clarity and accuracy without diminishing impact or 'dumbing down' the story. He has a strong eye for the human condition and is able to translate the visual to the written with subtlety and frankness. This book is uncomfortable to read as it cracks the vault on aspects of the human psyche rarely seen on such vast scales. It is nevertheless, extremely educational for Western readers to begin the process of understanding the tragedy and complexity of Africa. Especially recommended for those who may find themselves preparing for deployments or jobs in Africa.  

‘Neath Verdun - Maurice Genevoix

Title: ‘Neath Verdun

Author: Maurice Genevoix

ISBN: 978-0-85706-208-6

Publisher: Leonaur

Hardcopy

Pages: 171

Photos/Maps: 0

This book is a reproduction of the author’s diary running for the first few weeks of World War 1    (25 August – 4 October, 1914). It is not a book about the Battle of Verdun, but more the experiences, observations and thoughts of Lt Genevoix as he and his fellow soldiers grapple with the stresses and challenges of war for the first time in the region of the Meuse Valley. 

What makes this book quite unique is the degree of detail which the author recalls and remarks upon. Written in the immediacy of the moment, he is able to convey a sense of the frustration, fear, confusion, doubt, hope and comradeship that pervade these early days. One is struck by his horror at seeing soldiers with horrific wounds desperately seeking medical aid, the crushing exhaustion of endless marches in rain and mud, the joy at the prospect of a warm meal, the struggles with preventing melancholy at not receiving mail and the sad empathy at the suffering of wounded horses that he comes across. 

He and his soldiers are not hardened to war as of yet; they are still learning and struggling with the new reality of their existence and what it entails. The author is able to convey his concerns and fears of his own leadership and the terror of the prospect of combat and death (or even worse wounding). In battle, especially on the front line, ones focus is drawn into a very narrow field, bracketed by the soldiers within one’s immediate responsibility. This isolation and the necessity to make decisions under the stress of being exposed to maiming, death, exhaustion and fear is eloquently conveyed in Genevoix’s comments.

 

He is a sensitive, observant and thoughtful man, capable of seeing and capturing the essence of his surroundings and experiences through the written word in a way that many diarists fail to achieve. His work is short, but it leaves one feeling profoundly introspective and humbled at the massive undertaking that Genevoix and his soldiers were embarking upon. This is made all the more poignant with the reader’s benefit of hindsight and the knowledge of what the war would degenerate into. This book is well worth reading for junior and mid-grade officers as well as historians or those curious to get a bit of an appreciation of early field life of a combat command soldier.

Do No Harm - Henry Marsh

Title: Do No Harm
Author: Henry Marsh
ISBN: 978-1-250-06581-0
Publisher: Raincoast
Softcover
Pages: 277

Henry Marsh is a renowned neurosurgeon out of the UK. He has drafted a book outlining some of his more memorable experiences over a forty year career in medicine with the intent of passing on to future generations of clinicians and surgeons some of his hard earned observations and lessons. What caught my eye, and why I have included it within my blog, was the similarity in terms of leadership lessons within his writings that may also be applied within both the military and medical contexts.

Marsh divides his book into a series of chapters that relate to a specific type of spinal or brain injury. Each serves as an introduction to a success or failure and an evaluation by Marsh on how he addressed the situation. This is not a medical text, it is a compilation of reminiscences using his medical field as a guide. He does not pull any punches and undertakes a critical analysis of himself and others as he relates the events for the reader.

Why is this relevant for a leader? A number of reasons:

1. Mentorship: Marsh instituted a process whereby junior doctors presented case files and recommended courses of action during a daily morning briefing attended by all regardless of experience. This promoted group learning and a forum within which diagnosis and treatments could be discussed. Marsh continuously challenged his doctors ensuring greater consideration and thought;
2. Empathy: He placed particular stress on the importance of not forgetting that patients and subordinates are universally human first and that this must not be forgotten when interacting with them; from both a treatment and an institutional perspective. Throughout his works he is extremely critical of the bureaucracy that treats patients as commodities as opposed to human beings;
3. Micromanagement: Marsh acknowledges that he had particular difficulty allowing junior doctors to learn by doing and being empowered to undertake procedures without his direct intervention. It is critical that subordinates be encouraged and trusted (within their capabilities) and overseen only as required;
4. Ethics: As part of his instruction regime, Marsh was a strong proponent of "because you can does not mean you should' in terms of treatment. That is to say, will the resulting quality of life merit the discomfort and risk of surgery? This oblique approach to medical intervention is very much in keeping with the mindset that leaders must maintain;
5. Error: Throughout his narrative, Marsh is quick to acknowledge his own fallibility. This is important for all as hubris is the precursor to catastrophic failure. To be an effective leader or professional, it is critical that we recognize our own shortcomings; and
6. Knowing When to Challenge: The author acknowledges that, with maturity, came a realization that he could not win every fight and that indeed, he was foolish to try. The recognition of what was truly important served to focus his attention and improved his time management;

The most important aspect of this book from a leadership perspective; however, was his ability to make decisions and function effectively as a doctor despite the fact that he had not been able to save all of his patients; indeed some that he had successfully operated upon were paralyzed, left with significant disabilities or were not cured but only provided a brief reprieve. Neurosurgery can easily lead to catastrophic failure and requires a deep conviction and mental strength to undertake for both surgeon and patient. Many in leadership positions become incapacitated by PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and are thus unable to continue with their responsibilities. Marsh writes very personally about his struggles to reconcile his role as a healer with the shortcomings that he has inevitably experienced. He assumes an empathetic 'real politique' perspective that maintains his touch with patients while concurrently strengthening his mental capacity to deal with those times when the cure 'was worse than the illness'. This is a critical lesson for leaders to learn and emulate.

A fascinating and engaging read for all regardless of ones experience level. Marsh has provided outstanding lessons and mentorship beyond the surgical ward.

The Glass Cage - Nicholas Carr

Title: The Glass Cage                                                   
Author: Nicholas Carr   

ISBN: 978-0-393-24076-4

Publisher: Norton

Hardcover

Pages: 276

Photographs/Maps: 0 

There are two well known axioms that are often used to describe the human condition: "Knowledge is power" and "That which does not kill you, makes you stronger". Both seem, on the surface, to be both logical and unassailable; however, Carr's work, The Glass Cage, challenges the notion that the advancement of technology and its assumption of greater importance and a more central role in every facet of our lives, is making us stronger or more powerful as a society. 

Carr's central theme suggests that the advancement of automation in the world has not only made our lives easier in the sense that many of the mundane tasks that used to occupy our time are now accomplished by computers, but that it has also progressed to the point where the level of automation is no longer an enhancement of but a replacement for mankind. Human kind has now become a monitor/spectator to many of our daily activities.  

He draws upon a number of studies from a variety of disciplines that point to a gradual but marked decline in the capacity of humans to fend and think for themselves. Writing programs have autocorrect functions, shopping has targeted advertising, aircraft are automated such that pilots need only monitor, medicine has automated diagnostic systems, factories create systems that require little to no interface with human operators and gaming systems/communication technologies remove us further from actual face to face interaction. Carr acknowledges that, in and of themselves, these are not all negative advances and that there are practical benefits to be gained from applying technology. However, he suggests, given the gradual, insidious nature of the reliance that society has come to have on technology, that it has repercussions not only from an employment/societal perspective but also from a physical and psychological evaluation of who we are as humans. 

Carr presents that as we diminish our requirement to learn and, just as importantly, practise what we learn, our brains are undergoing physical change and, in some respects, atrophying; the same may be said for our ability to communicate and interact. These skills, like any, need to be used or they are lost. Carr backs up his assertions with practical examples and reference to numerous studies from the fields of medicine, ergonomics and psychology. 

He also, contends that the advent of technology as a replacement for the human in an equation is having the more subtle effect of raising the question of what is our role in the world. Are pilots still pilots if they are not physically flying the airplane and, as some may argue, they are no longer required in the cockpit at all? What is the role of a machinist if they are merely monitoring the equipment producing the good and what training and expertise do they really require?  

The West has become imbued with the idea that technology is a good thing and that there is little that it cannot do given time and development. While this may be true Carr advises that the computer works in the world of absolutes and has difficulty when faced with issues requiring subjective evaluation. He uses as an example the case where a driverless car must decide whether to hit a child who has run into the street or swerve into oncoming traffic thereby causing an accident that potentially kills its passengers. Additionally, the computer is only as good as the information and programming that goes into it. There are examples of technologies that are able to 'learn' and this will inevitably improve in the future but for now there are still some significant limitations on this ability. 

Why is all of this relevant to the leader of the future? I would contend that the further we remove ourselves from interaction with people and the practical world around us, the less capable we will be at dealing with situations and circumstances requiring decision making and those where the technological resources are not available. How well do we function today without smart phones and the internet? Technological development is not a bad thing but like anything it must be understood in the broader context of its impact. As a society we are driving forward without fully appreciating all of the ramifications of the tools that we have developed. Carr's book is a good read and presents a compelling argument for really asking ourselves what it is that we expect from technology and how do we, as humans, fit into that paradigm.

On the Precipice - Peter Mezhiritsky

Title: On the Precipice

Author: Peter Mezhiritsky
ISBN: 978-1-909384-95-8
Publisher: Helion and Company
Softcover
Pages: 399
Photos/Maps: 27/7

This book represents one of the first comprehensive Russian studies of the impact of Stalin's purges upon the psychology and effectiveness of the Soviet military running from the period 1932 to 1941. It is a fascinating subject, little understood by the West, as it touches upon a myriad of subjects:

1. Why did the Leadership of the post-Tsarist Soviet army allow itself to be culled without reaction;

2. What were the underlying causes that drove Stalin to undertake such a draconian course;

3. How was Stalin able to create an environment within which he was able to wipe out his officer class;

4. What impact did Stalin's actions have on countries outside of the Soviet Union;

5. Why did the Red Army stay loyal to Stalin's government; and

6. What impact did Stalin's actions have upon the effectiveness of those leaders of the Red Army that survived the purges?

Any student of military history, international relations and psychology has a rich subject to look at here. At no time in history has the leadership of a nation undertaken such a thorough bloodletting of its professional military class, followed by a devastating war and come out at the end stronger than when it started.

Unfortunately, this book has a number of drawbacks that take away from its enjoyment and utility. Primary amongst these is the writing style of the author. The closest that I can come to relating to it is to compare it to a discussion with an old uncle relating stories of his past after having had a few drinks. He is not completely drunk but is certainly not sober and trying to follow his line of discourse can be challenging in the extreme. Regularly, the author's narrative seems more like a stream of consciousness rather than a structured study. Subjects are brought up but not completely finished before the author is on to a different track. This is both extremely frustrating and confusing.

The book has a number of interesting nuggets of information for those willing to wade through its narrative and the subject is one that is absolutely horrifying and fascinating; however, I would recommend it only for those with time and patience looking for a starting point from which to follow up on the subject of Stalin's purges. This is not the definitive work on the subject and, while the author has made an obvious effort to shed light using Russian primary sources and deserves credit for his undertaking, this is not a book that a typical Western reader would appreciate or easily follow. 

 

 

The Deathworld Trilogy - Harry Harrison

Title: The Deathworld Trilogy

Author: Harry Harrison
ISBN: 978-1434450357
Softcover
Pages: 440
Publisher: Wildside Publishing

All forms of literature can hold lessons for the prospective leader; science fiction is no exception. The work 'The Deathworld Trilogy' is a fascinating study of the human condition under a variety of environments with clear applications to what we see in the real world today. Set in a future universe, it tells the story of a renowned gambler whose personality personifies the concept of 'honour amongst thieves', who is approached by a mysterious group soliciting his help in raising funds for them. The story unfolds with them being revealed as a closed society of perfect warriors living in a city state at war with (literally) the planet around them. The main character, known as Jason DinAlt, is inadvertently thrust into a world of perpetual combat fuelled by hatred of both sides for the other. As an outsider, he brings a perspective that flies directly in the face of the deep seated beliefs held by countless generations that have known no life other than the defence of their city through the perfection of their fighting skills. DinAlt is faced with deep seated mistrust and violent resistance when he begins to question some of the tenants that form the foundation of this society.

I would suggest that this story has parallels in some the main conflicts we see in our world today in regions such as Israel and the Gaza Strip as well as Radical Islam and the West. The book is a thoughtful insightful read that has lessons for those willing to appreciate and accept them.

The follow on book relates the impact of societies upon each other as they come in contact with one another. It explores the fact that the human condition is not sedentary and that exposure to alternatives be they language, tradition or geography is going to have an impact upon the outlook and behaviours of those groups meeting. The benefits of expansion and conquest must be balanced against the outcomes that intimate interaction is going to have regardless of whether they are viewed to be positive or negative.

This speaks to the impact of colonialism, immigration and the advent of such things as the internet upon the societies of the world. It is impossible to prevent change and those that attempt to do so run the risk of alienation and schism. Better to recognize that change is going to occur and to understand that it is not all negative. This has applications in many of the environments of the world but, particularly I would suggest, with regards to the impact of Eastern and Western cultures on each other as they inexorably move closer together with increased interaction.

This trilogy is an excellent and enjoyable read in addition to the lessons that it holds for the people of today. I would recommend it for both its entertainment and educational value.