Discuss whether or not Butler’s critique is correct and why or why not.

This week we will look at Smedley Butler’s pamphlet War is a Racket. Butler was one of the most highly decorated individuals in Marine Corps history. His publication of War is a Racket seems to be a refutation of more than thirty years of service to his country. We will discuss whether or not Butler’s critique is correct and why or why not. There is no “right or wrong” answer here, both sides can be defended, so I hope some of you will choose to critique Butler and his argument.

On the face of it Butler’s critique would appear to be correct, but one can argue that he was also incorrect. There is evidence to support either interpretation. Despite Butler’s military service we can still critique his interpretation of U.S. actions. Butler is a good example of the inherent contradiction of motive in U.S. foreign policy. I do hope that some students will choose to oppose Butler’s interpretation.

Answer : Following your reading of the previous four weeks is Butler correct in his critiques? Why or why not? Bring in evidence from the previous four weeks readings to support your answer.