Revolution in Military Affairs You Have to Be a Non-Conformist to be a Good Strategist, with Bill Murray
Dec 14, 2023
Bill Murray, a government employee and military thinker shaped by SAMS debate, offers a contrarian take on strategy. He discusses what makes a strategist, flaws in current military thought, and how to frame the Russo-Ukraine war beyond simple analogies. He stresses logistics, munitions, sanctions, and the need for fresh, nonconformist voices in doctrine and education.
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Strategists Must Change The Future
- A true strategist aims to change the future to their side, not just enjoy debating problems.
- Bill Murray says strategists must tie war and warfare into why/how decisions and seek outcomes, not mere appreciation.
Think About How You Think First
- Before solving a problem, examine how you think and which models you're bringing to bear.
- Bill Murray recommends listing possible contingencies and warning political leaders of outcomes that could make situations worse.
Ignored Outcome Became Reality In Kurdistan
- Amos described charting eight potential outcomes for the Kurdish referendum and having one scenario dismissed by leadership.
- That ignored scenario — Iraqi forces invading Kurdistan — actually occurred, showing avoided contingencies matter.
