TED: Let's rethink America's military strategy | Thomas Barnett

The video discusses the evolution of military strategies, focusing on the need for a sys admin force to handle non-war operations. It critiques the Pentagon's reliance on anti-access area denial strategies and highlights the challenges in transitioning from war to peace. The speaker emphasizes the importance of creating internal and coalition partners and the need for a new system to manage politically bankrupt states. The video also addresses the military's identity crisis post-Cold War and proposes a bifurcation of forces into Leviathan and sys admin roles to better handle future conflicts.

What is the main critique of the Pentagon's traditional military thinking?

• It underestimates the power of small nations.

• It is overly reliant on international allies.

• It lacks consideration of the broader context of war and peace.

• It focuses too much on technological advancements.

Why is proportional force important in transitioning from war to peace?

• It allows for more technological advancements.

• It reduces the cost of military operations.

• It helps maintain legitimacy with local populations.

• It ensures quick victory in battles.

What is the role of coalition partners in the transition space?

• To provide financial support.

• To negotiate with enemy forces.

• To assist in peacekeeping and stabilization.

• To lead military operations.

What is the Leviathan force primarily designed for?

• Handling non-combat operations.

• Building international coalitions.

• Managing economic policies.

• Waging traditional warfare.

What is the speaker's view on the current military's ability to handle non-combat roles?

• It is better than most but still inadequate.

• It is highly effective.

• It is the best in the world.

• It is completely ineffective.

What is the main challenge in creating a system administration force?

• Insufficient international cooperation.

• Resistance from traditional military forces.

• Lack of funding.

• Inadequate technological resources.

What does the speaker identify as a missing element in handling politically bankrupt states?

• More economic sanctions.

• A strong military presence.

• Increased diplomatic efforts.

• A comprehensive rule set.

What is the speaker's proposed solution for the military's identity crisis?

• Increase military funding.

• Develop a new strategic approach.

• Focus solely on combat operations.

• Reduce international cooperation.

What does the speaker suggest is necessary for effective global security?

• Increased isolationism.

• More nuclear weapons.

• A bifurcated military structure.

• A larger military budget.

What is the speaker's opinion on the Department of Homeland Security?

• It is a strategic necessity.

• It is unnecessary.

• It is a feel-good measure.

• It is highly effective.