Wed Sep 25 04:06:25 UTC 2024: ## New London, Connecticut: A Case Study in Military Dependency

**New London, CT** – Frida Berrigan, a pacifist and resident of New London, CT, argues that the town serves as a microcosm of the United States’ “Militarism Abuse Disorder” (MAD). Her community is heavily reliant on the military-industrial complex, with General Dynamics Electric Boat being the town’s largest taxpayer. The company, a major submarine manufacturer, employs thousands of locals and brings billions of dollars into the economy. However, Berrigan points out that this reliance comes at a significant cost, both financially and morally.

Berrigan highlights the massive spending on weapons systems, arguing that the United States spends trillions of dollars annually on military endeavors, a significant portion of which goes to companies like General Dynamics. She criticizes the “cost-plus” contracts that ensure these companies profit regardless of project success, ultimately burdening taxpayers.

Beyond the economic impact, Berrigan emphasizes the moral implications of such heavy reliance on military spending. She argues that the United States, the only nation to have used nuclear weapons in war, should be leading the charge to denuclearize and disarm instead of investing in ever more powerful weapons systems.

Berrigan also draws attention to the lopsided job creation in the military-industrial complex. Studies show that investing the same amount of money in healthcare, education, or renewable energy creates significantly more jobs than military spending.

Berrigan calls for a shift in priorities, urging her community and the nation as a whole to move away from militarism and towards a future where resources are allocated to sustainable, beneficial activities. She advocates for a more balanced approach, investing in sectors like healthcare, education, and renewable energy, sectors that not only create jobs but also build a more sustainable future.

Berrigan’s piece serves as a call to action, urging readers to confront the problematic reliance on militarism and to consider the moral and economic implications of their choices.

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