7091. All Possible Wars? Toward a Consensus View of the Future Security Environment, 2001-2025
- Author:
- Sam J. Tangredi
- Publication Date:
- 11-2000
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Abstract:
- There was a legend in ancient Rome about a fabulous set of nine books which contained a predestined history of the Roman people and — in particular — details of all future wars and crises which would beset them. These oracles, the property of Amalthaea ؏ the sibyl or prophetess of Cumae — were proffered to the Roman government. In a tale of greed, chauvinism, and intrigue worthy of a melodrama, the Romans decided not to pay the sibyl's price for the books and to bargain for a better deal. Upon learning of their decision, an angry and incredulous Amalthaea threw the first three books into a fire where they burnt to ashes. She thereupon asked for the exact same price for the remaining six books.
- Topic:
- Security, Defense Policy, and International Law
- Political Geography:
- Rome