Skip to content

Access Quote by Thomas P.M. Barnett

“There is no battle space the U.S. Military cannot access. They said we couldn't do Afghanistan. We did it with ease. They said we couldn't do Iraq. We did it with 150 combat casualties in six weeks. We did it so fast we weren't prepared for their collapse. There is nobody we can't take down. The…” quote by Thomas P.M. Barnett
Download Open image
“There is no battle space the U.S. Military cannot access. They said we couldn't do Afghanistan. We did it with ease. They said we couldn't do Iraq. We did it with 150 combat casualties in six weeks. We did it so fast we weren't prepared for their collapse. There is nobody we can't take down. The question is, what do you do with the power?”

Thomas P.M. Barnett

About This Quote

Military power can reach any conflict, but the real challenge is deciding how to use that capability responsibly.

In simple terms: Military can access any battlefield, but must choose wisely.

Key Takeaway

Consider ethical implications of power.

Themes

military power ethics strategy

Mood

serious thoughtful

Type

philosophical strategic

When to use this quote

  • peacekeeping mission
  • humanitarian aid
  • strategic planning
  • policy debate

Key Concepts

geopolitics responsibility intervention

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities come with such capability?
  • How can power be balanced with moral duty?
A Different Perspective

Power without purpose can cause harm.

2.0 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Thomas P.M. Barnett

Explore all 41 Thomas P.M. Barnett quotes

More Access quotes

Browse all 2,178 Access quotes