The Bomber Mafia

It is always such a pleasure to read Gladwell, owing to his engaging style of writing and ability to bring novel perspectives to the table. This short work is a great example of revisionist history, describing the events and personalities that contributed to the obliteration of Japan at the end of World War II. The most interesting topic addressed by Gladwell is the role of morals and the extent to which pragmatism — winning the war but murdering many innocent civilians — trumped ethics. There is also ample discussion about the complexities of warfare (designing planes) and the role of chance (weather impacting bombing plans). Gladwell's work also paints compelling portraits of key personalities and how their ambition — combined with the above pragmatism — drove the eventual outcome. As ever, there are consequences — both intended and unintended — from any decision. Compelling, not rated.

By Malcolm Gladwell