A leading political economist explains how war can benefit power and profits as the US-Israel conflict with Iran escalates. Conflict scholar David Keen delves into why some wars continue without a clear resolution, highlighting how war can serve political control, economic interests, and systems of power beyond the battlefield. Keen discusses how conflict can be functional, pointing out strategies like sanctions, smuggling, military spending, and creating useful enemies. He emphasizes the challenge of making peace more appealing than war in such scenarios.
Why It Matters
David Keen’s analysis sheds light on the complexities of war, illustrating how conflicts can serve various interests and endure without clear outcomes. Understanding the political, economic, and power dynamics at play in ongoing wars like the US-Israel-Iran conflict is crucial in grasping the broader implications of such confrontations. Keen’s insights underscore the importance of examining the underlying motives driving conflicts and the obstacles to achieving sustainable peace in conflict-ridden regions. By dissecting the multifaceted nature of war, Keen prompts a deeper reflection on the complexities of international relations and conflict resolution efforts.
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