Meaning: The quote "One cannot fashion a credible deterrent out of an incredible action" by Robert McNamara, a public servant, encapsulates the concept that in order for a deterrent to be effective, it must be based on actions that are credible and believable. This quote reflects the importance of maintaining credibility in the implementation of deterrent strategies, particularly in the context of public policy, international relations, and military defense.

Robert McNamara, the author of the quote, was a prominent figure in American politics, serving as the Secretary of Defense under Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson during the 1960s. McNamara played a key role in shaping U.S. military and defense policies during a critical period of the Cold War, and his experiences and insights continue to be relevant in contemporary discussions of strategic deterrence and international security.

The quote can be interpreted in various contexts, including military strategy, diplomacy, and policy-making. In the realm of military strategy, the concept of deterrence is centered on the idea of dissuading potential adversaries from taking hostile actions by convincing them that the costs and risks of such actions would outweigh any potential gains. This is achieved through the credible threat of retaliation or punitive measures. However, as McNamara's quote suggests, if the actions taken to establish deterrence are not credible or believable, they are unlikely to effectively dissuade adversaries from hostile behavior.

In the context of international relations and diplomacy, the quote underscores the importance of maintaining credibility in the implementation of diplomatic and foreign policy measures. When a country or a leader makes a threat or a promise as part of their foreign policy, it is essential for that threat or promise to be credible in the eyes of the international community. If the actions or statements are perceived as incredible or lacking in credibility, they are unlikely to achieve the intended deterrent effect and may even undermine the country's standing and influence on the global stage.

Furthermore, the quote can also be applied to the realm of public policy and governance. When policymakers and public servants make commitments or enact policies aimed at deterring certain behaviors or promoting certain outcomes, the credibility of those actions is paramount. If the public perceives these actions as incredible or lacking in sincerity, they are unlikely to have the desired impact and may erode public trust and confidence in the government and its institutions.

Overall, Robert McNamara's quote "One cannot fashion a credible deterrent out of an incredible action" serves as a reminder of the importance of credibility in the implementation of deterrent strategies, whether in the military, diplomatic, or policy-making spheres. It emphasizes the need for actions and statements to be perceived as credible and believable in order to effectively deter adversaries, influence international relations, and inspire public trust. As such, this quote continues to hold relevance in contemporary discussions of deterrence, security, and governance.