One of the goals of any scientific analysis is extracting general themes. Here’s my take on the application of the same to history.
1. Two things that should never be underestimated : serendipity and stupidity.
2. Napolean : “Only two things unite men – fear, and interest.”
3. There is always , yes , ALWAYS, a silver lining.
4. Leslie Orgel’s Second Rule : “Evolution is cleverer than you are.”
5. To win a war, you need : Israeli generals, British officers, Russian soldiers, Indian accountants, US money, German equipment, Japanese ideals and Italian enemies.
6. Most things are not defined by themselves – they are defined by their context.
7. Victory is not synonymous with success – Chanakya, in Arthaśāstra , ~300 B.C
8. “None are enslaved so hopelessly as those who believe themselves to be free.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
9. The fallacy of democracy is the assumption that all individuals who have rights are capable of taking the optimal decision for their group.
10. You have to right to perform your actions. You are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. – Bhagavada Geeta, Ch.2, Pg. 47
I’ll be willing to modify this list with any suggestions you send forth in the comments.
