Question #1 The purpose of this essay is to present a brief statement of Eisenhower’s critical thinking as the commander of the Mediterranean Theater in 1942-43 using the Critical Thinking Model proposed by Dr. Steve Gerras. Two of Eisenhower’s decisions or actions will be assessed using components of the Critical Thinking Model to determine if he did or did not demonstrate critical thinking. The model used in this discussion is a derivative of the Paul and Elder model. The elements of the model discussed throughout this analysis are clarify concern, assumptions and, inferences . First, it will be assessed the Darlan Deal and Torch Landing. This analysis should reflect indeed if Eisenhower’s decisions were in concert with the Critical Thinking Model already established. Whereas an assumption is something we take for granted, an inference is an intellectual act in which we conclude something based on a perception as to how the facts and evidence of a situation fit together . The military dimension and the outcome of Eisenhower action is interrelated to the political arena and its consequences. At first, political leader expressed to the Supreme Commander that he could use any mean to secure the West and North Africa including Admiral Darlan and his forces to be part of the Allied forces. This strategic goal set the tone for Eisenhower to put an action plan in place and to strike a deal with Darlan. Nevertheless, the Darlan deal seemed to be a failure because soon after a deal was struck, Washington and London condemned him on the public opinion. GEN Eisenhower’s decision became a political liability for both Allied countries. The desired effect to make a neutral actor into an allied was his aim. His inference to make a relev... ... middle of paper ... ... as a great communicator because he was able to build consensus all around especially in a joint and multinational environment. Indeed, his qualities of a great communicator proved he had the ability to make unquestioned decisions even though he was criticized numbers of times. He also proved himself capable of shape thoughts in dealing with the unprecedented strategic challenges that AFHQ faced. That is why he was able to develop an Allied Campaign Plan based on consent and persuaded other men to accept this common strategy. Lastly, Eisenhower demonstrated confidence in his decision-making influences and his vision for final victory as well his ability to stand up to political leaders, peers, public scrutiny and criticism. The combination of a clear vision and the ability to communicate with others was paramount in his success as the Supreme Allied Commander.
The lesson to be learned from all this: the deciding factor in diplomacy should be more based on what one thinks will happen as opposed to could happen. While a little idealistic, MacArthur certainly knew what he was talking about when it came to warfare, and America would have won the Cold War sooner if MacArthur?s mindset were accepted.
This essay will evaluate Eisenhower’s moral judgement and ethical decision-making using three (of seven) ethical principles author Don Snider contends are applicable to all Army professionals. After evaluating Eisenhower’s integration of duty, loyalty and subordination, this analysis concludes that Eisenhower used appropriate ethical and moral judgement in his decision authorized the deal as Allied Commander. The first principle
Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces during World War II, was close to not achieving commander status. If this had happened, a different person would have taken control over Operations Torch, Avalanche, and Overlord. Eisenhower, in fact, was the key component in the victory for the Allies. Had he not been assigned by George Marshall to a planning officer in Washington D.C., President Harry Truman might not have saw Eisenhower’s potential. Eisenhower’s past 30 years of military experience, his strong mental and social stature, and his ideas and tactics were all key factors for his triumphant victory in World War II.
...he AEF was organized. He led the first true combined force into battle. Because of him, we had a tank force that was integrated with infantry maneuvers to create a full spectrum force, a force that today, they call modular forces, then were flexible forces. Military strategy has not changed as much as many think over the years. Smart men have tweaked some ideas but the base idea is concrete. Our tactics and leader responsibilities have not changed. With my research, I did not find what I was looking for, but what I found was profound. I found a man that inspires me to be a better leader, tactician and student of my profession. I will close with my favorite quote from the late General of the Armies John “Black Jack” Pershing. “A competent leader can get efficient service from poor troops, while on the contrary an incapable leader can demoralize the best of troops.”
He exercised political influence via intermediaries. He was artful and in command of language, he dealt better during the private communications. Eisenhower never criticized anyone and showed sympathies towards his opponents. The organizational leadership was marked as well. Eisenhower instituted more structured forum for discussion of foreign affairs which caused the expand of the National Security Council.
Overall I consider JFK to be the number one leader and hero the world has ever known. He inspired me not only by his words but by his actions also. When JFK spoke to people he was able to make them feel great and empowered. He was an artist. The English language was his paintbrush and the U.S. was his canvass. Through his utilization of leadership traits and techniques, JFK changed the world for the better. If it wasn’t for his perfect balance of intelligence, confidence, charisma, determination, sociability, and integrity than we would not still respect JFK as a leader and his accomplishments to this very day.
Vaughn, L. (2013). The power of critical thinking. (4th ed.). New York, NY: Oxford University
To describe Critical Thinking (CT) as a “Higher-order skill” is to put it mildly. After spending twelve hours reading this week’s assigned articles and a great deal more on the subject of CT, I still feel like a first-grader being asked to solve a calculus equation. To paraphrase Tim van Gelder, learning CT skills is hard and a life-time journey. It is not enough to know the concepts, the student must actively practice CT themselves to improve their understanding (2004). I first became a critical thinker in third grade, after moving to London. As an American child, I had been taught that important history began in 1776, a history measured in hundreds of years. In England I saw a history measured in thousands of years and was taught the opposing
for historians and generals, and he is remembered as one of the most brilliant strategist
When he had a goal he accomplished it all thoroughly with no loose ends left to spare. Eisenhower was a
...large step towards world peace, thus this is way I believe he was an effective visionary leader.
History proves Dwight D Eisenhower was one of our best generals because of his level head when put under pressure and his ability to come up with a plan that was straight to the point and was well planned out.
2. Richard, Paul “Critical Thinking: Basic Theory and Instructions Structures,” Foundations for Critical Thinking. 1977. P
Critical thinking is an essential trait that every Army officer must possess. Officers must learn this trait and sharpen it through regular practice. The idea of critical thinking as a valuable aspect of the problem-solving process may seem daunting on the surface; however, it creates a more effective process in reaching crucial decisions for the Army officer. The critical thinking process, along with the elements of thought, used with the Army Problem Solving Process provides an established framework from which all involved parties benefit from because it enhances communication channels across all hierarchies. The elements of thought also provide thoroughness in thinking that closely align with the Army Problem Solving Process. In addition, the critical thinking process also creates confidence in
Critical thinking and decision-making are related in more ways than people think. This paper will define critical thinking and decision-making according to the book Whatever It Takes. It will also present a personal definition of critical thinking and decision-making from the author of this paper. The relationship between the two will be explained as well as the benefits of being a critical thinker. The author of this paper will also show how critical thinking is present in his organization and how he implements critical thinking techniques on a daily basis.