Peace Kills

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Having unraveled the mysteries of Washington and economics, one of our sharpest foreign correspondents focuses on the enigma of America's foreign policy. P.J. O'Rourke, despite years of writing about global affairs, admits he never truly contemplated foreign policy. He likens it to a dog owner lacking a "dog policy," suggesting that Americans care for foreigners but often react with force only when necessary. In this exploration, he aims to decode America's "Great Game," visiting countries on the brink of conflict or recovering from it, starting with Kosovo. There, he observes that America tends to intervene late, often bombing neighboring countries when injustice arises. His journey continues through Egypt, Israel, Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Iraq, where he witnesses the beginnings and endings of hostilities. O'Rourke also reflects on the impact of war and peace domestically, from the absurdities of airport security to the looming threat of anthrax, humorously noting that his mail threats come mainly from credit card companies. This work showcases O'Rourke at his most incisive, offering a thought-provoking perspective on a world transformed since he previously argued that the most troubling aspect of war can sometimes be peace itself.