Machiavelli Today: Obama's Non-Combat Mission

In an article published recently, following the war the United States is currently involved in the Middle East, President Obama sent Special Operations units into Syria. These troops’ only mission is to advise the local forces fight the Islamic State, rather than partaking in a combat role. This decision to send troops for prolonged mission into Syria, one that Obama has been avoiding, was made after an escalation of events, including Russia bombing some forces that the US supported. The article included quotes from several people in speculation of Obama’s decision. Both Republicans and Democrats expect little impact from the mission. Regardless, Obama’s efforts are labeled as diplomatic rather than reactive to Russia.

As advice to a prince on how to preserve faith in his subjects, Machiavelli recommends force as one of two ways of combat (95). To succeed in exerting force, a prince must master two beasts: the fox and lion (95). In his decision to send American troops on this non-combat mission, Obama acted with both cleverness and valor, qualities which Machiavelli attributes to the fox and lion, respectively (95). It is speculated that Obama’s diplomatic action is a “Goldilocks” tactic, avoiding both hot and cold waters with the American people and Russian forces. By sending an American force into Syria, Obama upholds our country’s pride and power to the American people and the rest of the world. However, the units are in an area that is shy of risks. Obama is putting the troops in a position that requires no combat, thus not directly upsetting Russia. Though with hopes to end the war, Obama ultimately avoids tangling the nation with the pre-existing conflict while keeping America strong in both diplomacy and force. Obama exemplifies what Machiavelli describes as the combat of man through law and diplomacy, but also both the beasts Machiavelli advises. Like a fox, Obama avoids diplomatic and warfare traps. Like a lion, Obama ensures America has a voice of strength, courage, and valor.

New York Times Article: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/31/world/obama-will-send-forces-to-syria-to-help-fight-the-islamic-state.html

Image Source: http://lastresistance.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/ass-fox-lion.jpg