Military Dominance: The True Driver of Western Global Supremacy (06/02/'24) -Viewpoint

Military Dominance: The True Driver of Western Global Supremacy Samuel P. Huntington's statement can be broken down and analyzed as follows: "The West won the world not by the superiority of its ideas or values or religion but rather by its superiority in applying organized violence": Superiority in applying organized violence: This refers to the Western powers' advanced military technologies, strategic military planning, and effective execution of warfare. It implies that the West's global dominance was primarily due to its military prowess and ability to wage war effectively, rather than the inherent superiority of Western cultural, philosophical, or religious ideas. "Non-Westerners never do": This suggests that non-Western societies did not engage in or were not as successful in utilizing organized violence to the same extent or effectiveness as Western societies. Huntington is highlighting a perceived distinction in how different civilizations approached conflict and power projection. Historical evidence and accumulated experience: Historical evidence: There are numerous instances where Western countries have demonstrated their military dominance. Examples include the colonization of the Americas, Africa, and parts of Asia, where Western powers subdued indigenous populations through superior weaponry and military tactics. Key events such as the conquests during the Age of Exploration, the Opium Wars, and the Scramble for Africa are often cited as evidence of this military superiority. Accumulated experience: Over centuries, Western nations developed extensive experience in military organization, strategy, and technology. This experience was accumulated through continuous warfare, colonization efforts, and global conflicts such as the World Wars. This experience reinforced and refined their ability to project military power globally. How the experience of proving such superiority works in the thinking and administrative organizations of modern Westerners: Thinking: This historical legacy of military success has shaped Western strategic thinking and political philosophy. There is often a belief in the effectiveness of military power in achieving political and economic objectives. This is reflected in doctrines, military academies, and strategic studies programs. Administrative organizations: Western countries have developed sophisticated military institutions and bureaucracies designed to plan, execute, and manage warfare. This includes advanced defense departments, intelligence agencies, and international alliances such as NATO. These organizations are built upon a long history of military tradition and success, influencing their operational strategies and policies. Overall, Huntington is arguing that the global dominance of the West was not a result of cultural or ideological superiority but rather their capability to effectively utilize military force to achieve and maintain power. This capability, built over centuries, continues to influence Western strategic and administrative practices today. Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 2, 2024)