Drugs, Oil, and War

The book delves into the intricate connections between U.S. foreign policy and the global drug trade, revealing how drug-trafficking alliances have influenced interventions from Vietnam to Iraq. Scott examines the concept of parapolitics, where covert actions lead to unforeseen consequences, and emphasizes the need for a shift towards 'soft politics'—a strategy of persuasion and nonviolence. He argues that American influence relies not only on military might but also on softer forms of power, highlighting the complexities of U.S. involvement in global conflicts.