For instance, can you provide an argument that increased committment of troops is “exactly what ISIS wants.”?
Why is “what ISIS wants” relevant here. ISIS is a bunch of fanatics who have a rather distorted model of reality. It may be that they want an increased commitment of troops because they believe it will lead to the prophesied climactic battle that ends with Allah destroying the unbelievers.
Why isn’t it a relevant question to understand the motivations of your enemy? Unless you’re saying that Da’esh has no motivation and is just doing things randomly.
It may be that they want an increased commitment of troops because they believe it will lead to the prophesied climactic battle that ends with Allah destroying the unbelievers.
It may be, sure, but it may also be that they want everyone to think that about them, in order to produce fear. Appearing totally crazy is often a good strategy in warfare.
Why is “what ISIS wants” relevant here. ISIS is a bunch of fanatics who have a rather distorted model of reality. It may be that they want an increased commitment of troops because they believe it will lead to the prophesied climactic battle that ends with Allah destroying the unbelievers.
Why isn’t it a relevant question to understand the motivations of your enemy? Unless you’re saying that Da’esh has no motivation and is just doing things randomly.
It may be, sure, but it may also be that they want everyone to think that about them, in order to produce fear. Appearing totally crazy is often a good strategy in warfare.
It’s not directly relevant to the argument you were making.