Choosing Your Battles

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The book explores the longstanding divide between civilian and military perspectives in U.S. foreign policy, particularly during the Iraq invasion debate. It highlights the reluctance of military leaders to engage in conflict and the civilian hawks pushing for action, alongside public apprehension about war casualties. This dynamic is presented as a recurring theme in American history, influencing decisions since 1816. The new afterword by Peter Feaver and Christopher Gelpi connects these historical patterns to the ongoing Iraq war, emphasizing their impact on current policy.