The other real problem with your position is that to have an effective military, they must follow orders.
Short of an actual severe national emergency like WW II, do we actually want an effective military?[/quote]I think yes. But I think we also need to make sure we hold those we elect to high standards and be open on our discussions of international politics, whether or not force is required, what are the real consequences down the line should we avoid getting involved etc. Too much has been done by stupid sound bites these days. It is easier to make an inflammatory statement than to build a reasoned position and argument.
I don’t think the military is the answer to all situations, but it the military force should be significant enough to give pause to the Kim Jung Il and other puffed up suited dictators – even with all of their self delusions. Too many countries seem to see that military force should be the first not last approach.
