Singing Potatoes
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Friday, 17 January 2003
Nazi Wisdom

"Naturally, the common people don't want war; neither in Russia nor in England nor in America, nor for that matter in Germany. That is understood. But, after all, it is the leaders of the country who determine the policy and it is always a simple matter to drag the people along, whether it is a democracy or a fascist dictatorship or a Parliament or a Communist dictatorship."

"There is one difference," I pointed out. "In a democracy the people have some say in the matter through their elected representatives, and in the United States only Congress can declare wars."

"Oh, that is all well and good, but, voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same way in any country."

— Interview of Hermann Goering
by Gustave Gilbert, 18 April 1946

Posted by godfrey (link)
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Comments
What implication is that, pray tell?

Posted by Godfrey on 21 Jan 2003 06:10
As I interpreted it, you're saying that this is what Georgie-boy is doing (or could potentially be doing) in regards to war with Iraq.

My interpretation is probably wrong, but I still think it's a good cautionary tale against uncritical patriotism, whether you agree with the current political situation or not...
Posted by Zach on 26 Jan 2003 20:20
Actually, it's not a comment restricted to the current administration. It's happened in every war, whether justified or not. Each country puts out propaganda dehumanizing the other side, denouncing its own pacifists and so forth.

I just found it interesting that, once he was captured and put on trial, Göring was candid enough to admit it.

Posted by Godfrey on 31 Jan 2003 06:47