On the Psychology of Military Incompetence Audiobook By Norman F. Dixon cover art

On the Psychology of Military Incompetence

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On the Psychology of Military Incompetence

By: Norman F. Dixon
Narrated by: James Langton
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A classic study of military leadership uncovering why generals fail

The Crimea, the Boer War, the Somme, Tobruk, Pearl Harbor, the Bay of Pigs: these are just some of the milestones in a century of military incompetence, of costly mishaps and tragic blunders. Are these simple accidents—as the "bloody fool" theory has it—or are they inevitable?

The psychologist Norman F. Dixon argues that there is a pattern to inept generalship, and he locates this pattern within the very act of creating armies in the first place, which in his view produces a levelling down of human capability that encourages the mediocre and limits the gifted. In this light, successful generals achieve what they do despite the stultifying features of the organization to which they belong.

On the Psychology of Military Incompetence is at once an original exploration of the battles that have defined the last two centuries of human civilization and an essential guide for the next generation of military leaders.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2016 Norman F. Dixon (P)2023 Basic Books Military Russia Wars & Conflicts World War II

Critic reviews

"One does not have to share all, or even most, of Dixon's often rebarbative views to agree that this penetrating, self-knowing, often hilarious, and sometimes alarming book is a must-read. It is a classic of military history awaiting rediscovery today.” Brendan Simms, author of Europe: The Struggle for Supremacy

"An original, scientifically impressive and fascinating book . . . a minor classic.” Tablet

"An absorbing, perceptive and often very funny study in human frailty.” Listener
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An in-depth review of many of the debacles that have punctuated wars. Not surprisingly the chaos of battle has crystallized the picture of poor leadership. And although hindsight is clearer, the personality type of those who lead exacerbates the situation with subpar people seeking to fulfill personal issues at the expense of others lives.

In depth review of military mindset

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Every person in the military or those fascinated with it needs to read this. You will not find a better example of criticism of military comand for modern times,

History

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An engaging and thought provoking read especially for those in the military and in leadership

Engaging

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Those responsible for the US Military must read. If you wonder why the US keeps failing this book helps answers that question.

Great book. Should be read by Secretary of Defense!

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