Stradiotto

Chalmers Johnson, author of Blowback(excerpt) - book available at Powells - has a fascinating article in this month's print edition of Harper's. I recommend it highly.

In his article, Johnson describes the depths of cronyism and corruption rampant in the military-industrial complex's relations with the current and past adminstrations. The article is not as much a "gotcha" as it is an indictment of policies that have cemented the control of defense contractors over the government. It certainly gives creedence to various left wing criticisms concerning the United States government's institutionalized habit of lying when it comes to justifying wars and ever increasing placement of military bases around the world.

One the things I found most striking was description of Camp Bondsteel. It is, by all accounts, a grim place and its construction certainly enriched a corporation that has long influenced US policy.

Do buy the magazine. Johnson's article alone makes it worth it. As a bonus, you can spit with outrage at Benjamin DeMott's dull rehashing of touchy feely politicians baring their boring souls and Thomas de Zengotita's top down motherfucker advice for progressive radio.

Update: Ken MacLeod's blog entry of the 22nd has a good remedy for anti-democratic corporatists.