Delusion Quote by H. R. McMaster
“What we can afford least is to define the problem of future war as we would like it to be and, by doing so, introduce into our defense vulnerabilities based on self-delusion.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on Future Conflict, US National Defense University, 2020
Defining future war based on wishful thinking creates self‑deception and weakens defense planning.
In simple terms: Imagining war as we want it leads to vulnerable strategies.
Key Takeaway
Avoid wishful thinking in security planning.
Themes
security
strategy
future war
self‑delusion
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
strategic
critical
When to use this quote
- military planning
- policy making
- threat analysis
- defense budgeting
Key Concepts
risk assessment
strategic foresight
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How might your assumptions shape defense policy?
- What safeguards prevent self‑delusion?
A Different Perspective
Over‑optimism can blind planners to real threats.
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