Sunstein on Kissinger: No opinion on the whole war criminal thing, but the generosity that he showed when talking about Star Wars [the movie, not the weapons program] was “incomparable”

2026-02-05 · Source: Statistical Modeling, Causal Inference, and Social Science · Field: Government & Public Sector — Public Policy & Governance, International Relations & Diplomacy · Depth: Intermediate, medium

Summary

This analysis critiques Cass Sunstein's perceived over-reliance on government authority and his reluctance to take firm stances on controversial figures like Henry Kissinger. The author highlights Sunstein's past writings, co-authored with Adrian Vermeule in 2008, which explored government responses to conspiracy theories but overlooked the possibility of government promotion of such theories. The piece also examines Sunstein's recollection of the Reagan Administration's adherence to the rule of law, contrasting it with later events like Iran-Contra. A central point of contention is Sunstein's "curiosity and generosity" anecdote about Kissinger regarding a "Star Wars" book, which the author finds insufficient given Kissinger's controversial legacy concerning human rights and alleged war crimes. The author argues that Sunstein's evasiveness on Kissinger's actions undermines his broader discussions on liberalism, freedom, and the rule of law.

Key takeaway

For Research Scientists and public intellectuals discussing governance and ethics, your credibility hinges on confronting difficult truths and taking clear positions. Avoid intellectual evasiveness on controversial historical figures, especially when their actions conflict with the principles you advocate. Acknowledging potential government malfeasance, even by past administrations, strengthens your arguments on rule of law and human rights, rather than weakening them.

Key insights

Uncritical trust in government and evasiveness on controversial figures can undermine intellectual credibility.

Principles

• Acknowledge government's potential for promoting misinformation.
• Evaluate government actions on their totality, not just worst deeds.
• Conviction requires taking clear stances on controversial figures.

In practice

• Scrutinize claims of government adherence to rule of law.
• Challenge intellectual figures on their evasive positions.

Topics

• Cass Sunstein
• Henry Kissinger
• Government Trust
• Rule of Law
• Conspiracy Theories

Best for: Policy Maker, Legal Professional, Research Scientist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Statistical Modeling, Causal Inference, and Social Science.