Scott Horton Show - Just the Interviews 11/18/25 Barry Eisler on the CIA, Venezuela and Using Novels to Wake People Up
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Nov 21, 2025 
Barry Eisler, a former CIA officer and now a political thriller novelist, shares his transformation from insider to critic, highlighting the disarray in U.S. foreign policy and the alarming prospect of military action in Venezuela. He explores how storytelling can awaken minds to political realities and emphasize the importance of cognitive empathy in understanding differing perspectives. Eisler also tackles critical themes like American exceptionalism, the role of elites, and the motives behind regime change, while providing craft advice on writing engaging yet meaningful fiction.
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Normalization Of Endless War
- Eisler highlights how U.S. bombing and covert actions have become normalized to Americans but look bizarre abroad.
- That normalization lets presidents start or continue wars without public debate or formal declarations.
Weak Pretexts Don't Prevent Intervention
- Eisler and Scott note that sensational, thin propaganda for war is now often laughable but can still be dangerous.
- They warn that weak or absent pretexts haven't stopped the U.S. from bombing or intervening in the past.
Sanctions Can Drive Unintended Alliances
- Eisler observes sanctions push regimes toward alternative partners, creating new strategic problems.
- He cites Venezuela turning to Iran as an unintended consequence that raises new security concerns.
