Why to Build a Better War Machine (Update)

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced a 20 year 30 billion dollar military spending plan. He is calling it "Canada First defence strategy." What I find so disturbing is the rationale cited for this plan.

"If a country wants to be taken seriously in the world, it must have the capacity to act. It's that simple," Harper said Monday at the Halifax Armoury, joined by Defence Minister Peter MacKay. "Otherwise, you forfeit your right to be a player. You're the one chattering on the sideline that everyone smiles at, but no one listens to."

Now of course the stated rationale is the ability to assert sovereignty at home and abroad. And tagged on the end is the promise of economic benefit. "This unprecedented commitment of stable, long-term funding will provide good jobs and new opportunities for thousands, for tens of thousands of Canadians who work in defence industries and communities with military bases." This language comes on the heels of massive job losses in the manufacturing sector in Ontario (particularly, but not exclusively, automotive). It is so disheartening to know that our country's economic foundation is based on either building cars or tanks. Hmmm no great critique here or alternative just a bit of a sigh.

Speaking of the political see Inhabitatio Dei's post on Jesus for President and I Cite's post on Zizek and democracy.