Cohn: Sex and Death in the Rational World of Defense Intellectuals

Cohn, C., 1987. Sex and Death in the Rational World of Defense Intellectuals. Signs, 12(4), 687-718.

Author interested in how think-tank types can “think that way”, ie., be so cavalier about statements about nuclear attacks, etc. Calls the logic technostrategic.

The language used by these technocrats is comprised generally of euphemisms. These metaphors build a narrative that promotes a certain kind of thought pattern that can rationally explore the possibility of the destruction of millions of people as being the most positive outcome in a given scenario.

This kind of thinking, in the eyes of Cohn, is transformative, and that is caused by the kinds of language that is used.

Overall, a very fun read.