Meaning: The quote by Michael Ignatieff reflects on the generational experiences of war and the impact of societal changes on the relationship people have with conflict. Ignatieff suggests that both his generation and the current one have had limited exposure to the realities of war, attributing this to the end of the draft and the defeat in Vietnam.

The end of the draft refers to the cessation of mandatory military conscription in the United States, which occurred in 1973. Prior to this, young men were required to serve in the military, leading to a more widespread and direct experience of war among the population. The draft meant that a broader cross-section of society was involved in military service, and as a result, a larger portion of the population had firsthand experience or personal connections to those involved in war.

The defeat in Vietnam refers to the outcome of the Vietnam War, which ended with the fall of Saigon in 1975. The Vietnam War was a deeply divisive and traumatic conflict for the United States, and the defeat had a profound impact on the national psyche. The war was marked by significant loss of life and widespread opposition, leading to a societal reckoning with the costs and consequences of military engagement.

Ignatieff's assertion that these events have severed subsequent generations from the direct experience of war speaks to the idea that the absence of conscription and the memory of a deeply unpopular war have contributed to a detachment from the realities of armed conflict. Without the draft, the burden of military service has fallen primarily on volunteers, creating a professionalized military that is more removed from the general population. This has resulted in a smaller proportion of individuals having direct personal experience with war, leading to a potential lack of understanding or appreciation for its full impact.

At the same time, the quote acknowledges that the disconnection from war has been facilitated by "some very good things." This likely refers to the progress and prosperity that have been achieved in the absence of large-scale, protracted conflicts. The period following the Vietnam War saw the United States and many other countries experience economic growth, technological advances, and social change. The absence of a major, all-encompassing conflict allowed for a focus on other areas of development and improvement, enabling societies to flourish in various ways.

Ignatieff's observation raises important questions about the implications of a society that has limited direct experience with war. It suggests that without a tangible understanding of the realities of conflict, individuals and societies may struggle to fully comprehend the gravity of war and its effects on those involved. This lack of direct experience could impact attitudes towards military intervention, national defense, and the support for those who have served in the armed forces.

Furthermore, the quote invites consideration of how the disconnection from war may shape cultural and political perspectives. Without a recent and visceral experience of war, the broader society may find it challenging to empathize with the experiences of veterans, understand the complexities of geopolitical conflicts, or appreciate the sacrifices made by those in the military. This could have implications for public policy, societal attitudes towards militarism, and the way in which the broader population engages with questions of peace and security.

In conclusion, Michael Ignatieff's quote captures the idea that the end of the draft and the defeat in Vietnam have contributed to a generational disconnection from the direct experience of war. It prompts reflection on the impact of this disconnection on societal attitudes and understanding of war, as well as the broader implications for public discourse and policy. Understanding the historical context and societal changes that have shaped this disconnection is essential for grappling with the complexities of war and its place in contemporary society.