Quote Originally Posted by Bob's World View Post
So, without new tools and a new approach, yes, there will be increased activity once we let up on the "suppressive fires" of OIF/OEF.
I'm inclined to believe that the worldwide 2002-2008 level of terrorism will continue with no increase and instead a gradual decline to pre-1972 levels -- terrorism has been with us for millennia, it is not going away -- by about 2030-40. That prediction is based on nothing more than my being old and have watched the cycles of the world for a while. There are cycles, they weave in strange ways but there's a pattern of sorts if you pay attention.

We will remain the principal target for not only terrorism but for many other forms of attack -- and invective -- simply because we are big and inviting. Not only would be terrorists, certain disaffected communities and hard core Socialists who think we are terrible and the root of most evil in the world will come at us in one way or another but many of our 'friends' would love to see us stumble or be humiliated and will, as they long have, work below the table to achieve that. All that has been true in my observation since the end of WW II. It has not changed over the years though the depth and extent does vary as we do -- or do not do -- certain things.

We have annoyed many with our approach to a lot of things, no question.

We have also encouraged many by not pursuing things -- and there should be no question on that score. A surprising number of folks out there see 'turning the other cheek' and 'compromise' as weakness.

Determining the correct approach is never simple and there is never a one best answer...

As we have been told there will be a 'new approach' and indications are that at least superficially that may be true, what that approach might do to either your or my prediction remains to be seen...