Gregory A. Daddis
Bullets Not Ballots is an unvarnished and indispensable critique of counterinsurgency that doesn't shy away from the role violence plays in internal conflicts. Jacqueline L. Hazelton shines in her historical case studies, supporting a bold theory that forces readers to grapple with the costs and consequences of war.
Conrad Crane
Jacqueline L. Hazelton eviscerates much of contemporary counterinsurgency thought with a well-argued assault on the importance of democratization, good governance, and protecting the populace. In Bullets Not Ballots she shows that counterinsurgency is violent state building where success depends upon co-opting elites and adept use of brute force.
Bob Wilson
Jacqueline L. Hazelton offers an in-depth, unblinking look at counterinsurgency that tears away the many myths and misconceptions that have guided U.S. policy for decades, especially after 9/11. Bullets not Ballots is a tremendous contribution to the field.
Deborah Avant
Jacqueline L. Hazelton makes the provocative case for the importance of military force and elite bargains in success against insurgent forces. Based on a careful analysis of five historical cases, Bullets Not Ballots will ignite academic debate and give pause to policy makers who pursue counterinsurgency.
Paul Staniland
Bullets Not Ballots offers a provocative argument about the limits of "hearts and minds" counterinsurgency. Using a set of historical comparisons, Hazelton advances an alternative explanation for success and failure in counterinsurgency. As scholars and analysts grapple with the limits of American interventions since 9/11, this book provides important food for thought.
Richard K. Betts
Counterinsurgency skips generations in American policy but the world keeps it coming back. Jacqueline L. Hazelton's challenge to the 'hearts and minds' doctrine raises uncomfortable questions about whether an effective strategy can also be humane. Whichever one's position, none engaged in this debate can afford to ignore her trenchant exploration of the dilemma.
John J. Mearsheimer
Bullets Not Ballots is a must read for students of counterinsurgency. Hazelton argues that counterinsurgency is a brutal business where ruthlessness is essential for success. Emphasizing good governance and winning hearts and minds sounds noble, but they are formulas for failure.
