2009-07-07

Robert McNamara Dead At 93

Former Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara passed away on July 6.

He had the misfortune of dying right at the height of the Michael Jackson death-craze. It's a shame because through him, one can learn a lot not just about American culture and political history but what it's become.

I first learned about McNamara in the amazing documentary "The Fog of War." I don't think I've ever seen any public figure be so emotionally candid as he was in that significant film. I don't carry the emotional baggage that is Vietnam, but there's no doubt to McNamara, who was hired by JFK and later worked under LBJ, being a controversial figure.

Here are some links discussing his legacy here and here.

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Everything is about "systems" now. In sports, the "in" coaches build systems in which players are forced to comply with its designs. The individuality of the athlete is often rooted out. The smart coaches remain fluid and flexible. They learn everything about their athletes on a personal level and find a way to fit them into their overall strategy.

I've met a few Robert McNamara types in my life. Pegged as "geniuses" yet when you sat and listened you wondered what the fuss was all about.

We have a technocratic society that's lost its sense of individual flair and ability to critically think about issues.

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