In "Manufacturing Militarism," Christopher J. Coyne and Abigail R. Hall, both esteemed professors of Economics, shed light on a pervasive but often overlooked phenomenon: the deliberate propagation of military propaganda targeting American citizens since the aftermath of 9/11. Contrary to popular belief, they argue that the primary adversary in the War on Terror isn't a shadowy extremist orchestrating acts of terror but rather the well-informed American populace.

From the dimly lit confines of movie theaters to the adrenaline-charged atmosphere of football stadiums and even the mundane routine of airport security screenings, Coyne and Hall meticulously dissect how the US government has strategically inflated the perceived threat of terrorism and the purported necessity of a robust military response. By disseminating biased, incomplete, and often misleading information, policymakers have fostered a culture of fear and militarism that poses a grave threat to the very foundations of a free and democratic society.

Employing a political-economic lens, the authors explore the incentives inherent in a democratic system where a bloated national security apparatus holds significant sway. Through compelling case studies drawn from the tumultuous landscape of the War on Terror, Coyne and Hall demonstrate how propaganda operates within the confines of a democracy, shaping public opinion and policy decisions.

As citizens find themselves subjected to rigorous security screenings at airports, despite the absence of credible threats, and are inundated with glorified portrayals of military might in popular media, the authors contend that such propaganda undermines the fundamental principles of government by citizen consent. "Manufacturing Militarism" serves as a timely and incisive examination of the insidious influence of propaganda in contemporary society, urging readers to critically evaluate the narratives shaping their perceptions and the policies guiding their nation's actions.