Reflections on Clausewitz, Book II, Chapters 5 & 6: History and Criticism

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Chapter 5: Criticism

It is through criticism that abstract principles touch upon real life; it is here that theory meets factual reality.

There are three forms of criticism.  First is the historical investigation of doubtful facts; inquiry.  The second is concerned with connecting effect to cause; this is where critical inquiry occurs.  They third is used to test the means employed; this is what criticism typically means.

Throughout history, but particularly in war, the causes are often diff...