I rushed through the first three books, trying to make a dent, and then slogged through the fourth book, hoping the end would come soon. By about halfway through the fifth book, I wanted to go back and reread from the beginning (and pay more attention the second time through).

Thought-provoking read (which is the whole point). Will be applying some of the study and learning techniques suggested, all meta-like, in a quick reread and review of the book itself.

Remember thinking this was a bunch of poppycock four years ago. May be time for a re-read.

A fist to the forehead of American exceptionalism. Bacevich pulls no punches and offers no quarter. Going all the way back to Carter, the US government, its military, and its culture has been shaped to feed the consumer imperative. Our hubris and our profligacy have jeopardized the security of generations to come. Recommended for any (no matter your political slant--there's something here for everyone) who are interested in how the application of American power can either promote or undermine our country's best interests.