The article explores the complex question of whether conventional armies can defeat insurgencies, arguing that while powerful forces hold tactical advantages, these rarely translate into decisive victories against deeply rooted, popularly supported insurgent movements. Insurgencies thrive on political grievances and…..

Shane Parrish's "Clear Thinking" re-examines Dickens's Scrooge not as a quaint tale, but as a severe warning against a life driven solely by societal metrics like wealth and status, illustrating how such pursuits lead to isolation and regret. The article highlights the "hedonic treadmill" and misplaced ambition through…..

The article dissects the recurring failures of U.S. military interventions in Vietnam and Afghanistan, highlighting striking parallels in their causes, from political myopia and corrupt local allies to cultural misunderstanding and dwindling public support. It argues that these conflicts serve as stark case studies in…..

Mastering decision-making isn't about outcomes, which are often swayed by luck, but about rigorously dissecting the process of how decisions are made. Our innate self-serving bias blinds us to flawed thinking when outcomes are favourable, making genuine learning impossible. By adopting a "Process Principle" and…..

Terrorism, far from conventional warfare, is a psychological strategy aimed at sowing chaos and uncertainty within a society. By leveraging fear and exploiting collective vulnerabilities, small groups can disproportionately impact powerful nations, turning perceived strengths into weaknesses. Effective…..

This article explores the distinct yet interconnected guerrilla warfare strategies of Mao Zedong, Che Guevara, and Ho Chi Minh, highlighting their shared objective of exhausting superior conventional forces. Mao cultivated popular support to build a peasant-based tide, Che ignited resistance through…..

The article argues that a "margin of safety" is crucial for navigating an unpredictable world, acting as an essential buffer against unforeseen failures in all aspects of life, not just finance. It critiques the hubris of certainty, exemplified by Long-Term Capital Management's downfall, and advocates for prudent preparation…..

The article explores passive aggression not as petty squabbling but as a sophisticated strategic tool in modern warfare. It highlights historical figures like Gandhi and Metternich who mastered this "subtle blade" to achieve their goals by appearing compliant while subtly manipulating situations. Ultimately, understanding and…..