#17. War, What Is It Good For?

Or, who is it good for?

Introduction

War. The ugly, undeniable specter of war looms large over our world. It always has and we're actually very lucky that we live in a time where most of us are relatively safe and secure. However, right at this moment, from the fields of Ukraine to the crowded streets of Gaza, the stench of brutal death lingers. The immediate toll obvious, the lives lost and cities razed.

My father always told me that to understand something, you must follow the money and war is no different. This article delves into the grim reality of who profits from these modern conflicts, no matter how controversial the findings may be.

The Military-Industrial Complex (MiC)

Theres only one place to start. If war is the theater, the MiC is the director. The military-industrial complex plays the role of the relentless supplier. The alliance of defense contractors and military institutions thrives in chaos, their fortunes rising with each new conflict. Companies like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and BAE Systems are the modern-day alchemists, turning bloodshed into gold.

This relationship has always irked me. How is it possible that a nations defense systems are supplied by private companies? How is it even more possible that these companies are publicly listed on the stock exchange? Are shareholders funding wars? If wars are good for business and business is good for shareholders and the company's ultimate goal is to provide value to shareholders, isn't it ideal for defense contractors to be in perpetual war?

How is any of this legal?!

As the war drums beat louder in Ukraine, these corporations see their stock prices soar, fueled by the billions of dollars in military aid (public tax money) funneled to the region by Western governments.

This isn't just about profits—it's about a perpetuating cycle where today's weapons sales ensure tomorrow's contracts. The conflict keeps these companies at the forefront and their influence seeping into the halls of power, ensuring that the war machine never stops turning.

Political Leaders and Governments

War also bolsters the power of political leaders and governments, providing them with the perfect stage to play the hero—or the tyrant. In Russia, Vladimir Putin uses the war in Ukraine to rally nationalist fervor, tightening his grip on power and quashing dissent. Same could be said of Zelensky, who refuses to hold elections until the war is over. The war becomes a convenient excuse for suppressing opposition and curtailing freedoms, all in the name of national security.

In Israel, the conflict with Gaza allows leaders to justify stringent security measures and military actions that might otherwise face significant resistance. This isn't just about maintaining power—it's about using war as a tool to mold public opinion and consolidate control, ensuring that their rule remains unchallenged. Netanyahu of course knows that once he leaves office, he's toast.

Economic Interests

Beyond the battlefield, war reshapes economies and creates opportunities for profit. The reconstruction of war-torn areas becomes a lucrative venture for construction firms, infrastructure companies, and international aid organizations. Ukraine, facing the daunting task of rebuilding, presents a massive economic opportunity. The contracts for reconstruction will enrich those positioned to win them, turning devastation into a business. We all remember Halliburton and Cheney's dubious affiliations.

Natural resources are another critical factor. Control over oil, gas, and minerals can be both a cause and a consequence of conflict. The war in Ukraine is not just a territorial dispute; it's also about securing energy routes and resources vital to Europe's economy. These economic stakes ensure that the conflict's embers are kept alive, fueled by the interests of those who stand to gain the most.

Non-State Actors

War also empowers non-state actors, from militant groups to private military contractors. In Gaza, groups like Hamas gain political leverage and financial support through their militant activities. The instability of war serves their interests, allowing them to recruit, raise funds, and expand their influence.

Private military companies like Russia's Wagner Group operate in the shadows, providing mercenary services and engaging in resource extraction. These entities complicate the battlefield dynamics, driven by profit motives and operating with a level of deniability that benefits their state sponsors.

Humanitarian Organizations

Ironically, even organizations dedicated to alleviating the suffering caused by war can find themselves beneficiaries of its continuation. Humanitarian aid agencies and NGOs receive increased funding and donations during conflicts. While their mission is to provide relief, the influx of resources tied to war can create a dependency, where the continuation of conflict ensures their ongoing operations.

Conclusion

War and its immediate devastation spins a complex web of beneficiaries who profit from the chaos. Multiple levels of corporations and individuals have incentives to perpetuate conflict. People that are deeply embedded in the fabric of modern society.

If we want to move towards peace and away from endless, pointless wars, we need to focus on the true beneficiaries of war. Billions and billions. No! Hundreds of billions. No! Trillions of public money and debt are laundered through wars under the pretense of defense.

War is ugly. War is evil. War is profitable.

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