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The Meaning of Victory: 1945

John David Lewis

Presented at: OCON 2007

Date: Jul 06, 2007

Americans today face legions of suicidal killers, motivated by a religious-political philosophy. To defeat them and the governments behind them, we must understand what victory means, both historically and philosophically. Historically, the greatest victory in American history, the 1945 defeat of Japan, used horrific violence to attain a non-negotiable goal: the unconditional surrender of the enemy. The result was the most benevolent turnaround of a nation in history. How was this victory achieved? What is its essential meaning? What lessons does it hold for us today? Philosophically, a proper victory affirms the efficacy of good over evil, and of unshackled minds over mystical thugs. This has implications for every branch of philosophy. To fail to attain victory constitutes a deep betrayal of life and of the good. This course can help Americans honor the "Greatest Generation" of their past, renew their understanding of victory and revitalize their commitment to achieve it.

history

Parts: 3

Handout: none

Publications: