Ben of Ben & Jerry’s Exposes the Motives Behind War With Russia & the Politicians That Sold Out

The Legacy of Smedley Butler

Cohen begins by referencing Smedley Darlington Butler, a highly decorated Marine general who famously declared that "war is a racket." Butler's insights, written in his book, resonate with Cohen as he reflects on the historical context of U.S. military interventions. He emphasizes that many conflicts arise from U.S. actions, such as overthrows and invasions, which have led to instability and the subsequent refugee crises that the U.S. faces today. Cohen quotes Butler, who described his military service as acting as "high-class muscle" for big business interests, highlighting the connection between military actions and corporate profits.

The Ukraine Conflict: A Different Perspective

As the conversation shifts to the ongoing war in Ukraine, Cohen expresses his dissent against the mainstream liberal stance that overwhelmingly supports military intervention. He argues that the U.S. has played a significant role in provoking the conflict, particularly through NATO's eastward expansion, which violated promises made to Russia after the Cold War. Cohen believes that understanding the historical context is crucial to grasping the complexities of the current situation. He asserts that the U.S. has a tendency to create enemies through its foreign policy, which ultimately leads to resentment and conflict.

Cohen points out that many Americans view the war through a simplistic lens, seeing Ukraine as a small nation being invaded by a larger aggressor. However, he urges listeners to consider the provocations that led to the conflict, including NATO's expansion and the U.S.'s disregard for Russia's security concerns. He argues that a more nuanced understanding could lead to a push for peace rather than prolonged warfare.

The Cost of War

Cohen highlights the staggering financial implications of U.S. military spending, noting that a significant portion of the federal budget is allocated to the Pentagon. He contrasts this with the pressing needs of American citizens, such as affordable housing, education, and healthcare. Cohen argues that the resources spent on military endeavors could be redirected to address domestic issues that would improve the quality of life for many Americans. He cites Martin Luther King Jr.'s critique of the military-industrial complex, emphasizing that the funds used for war could instead be invested in uplifting communities.

The Role of Public Opinion

Cohen believes that public opinion is a powerful tool that can influence political decisions. He expresses skepticism about the effectiveness of lobbying Congress, suggesting that grassroots movements and shifts in public sentiment are more likely to bring about change. He is in the process of launching a campaign called "Common Sense Defense," aimed at educating the public about the consequences of excessive military spending and advocating for a reallocation of resources toward social programs.

The Disconnect Between Politicians and the Public

Throughout the discussion, Cohen reflects on the disconnect between the priorities of politicians and the needs of the American public. He notes that many politicians are reluctant to oppose military spending due to fears of being labeled "weak on defense." This dynamic creates an environment where military budgets are consistently increased, often at the expense of social programs that could benefit citizens. Cohen argues that this pattern is not only detrimental to the well-being of Americans but also perpetuates a cycle of violence and conflict globally.

The Moral Implications of Military Spending

Cohen's perspective is deeply rooted in moral considerations. He questions the values that underpin U.S. foreign policy and military spending, suggesting that a nation should be judged by how it treats its citizens and others around the world. He advocates for a shift in focus from military dominance to humanitarian efforts, emphasizing that true strength lies in the ability to help others rather than in the capacity to wage war.