Thanks for your take on this one. I was in Baghdad around the same time, Army, but a half step removed from combat arms. A decade removed from that now, I agree with you. In the moment, I think that dehumanization is a necessary side effect of combat. It lets you come to terms with everything slowly over time, rather than dealing with it all at once.
Interestingly, this was a management team read at my current employer. It isn’t seen as the only way to manage - more of a kick to have people own more of their responsibilities rather than deferring to others.
War is really ugly, but I liked the rational tone nevertheless and the techniques they use to stay focused and organized in a totally chaotic environment.
Systems analysis, nihilistic violence, group psychology, mindless cruelty towards animals, building leadership and team spirit - all applied to corporate consulting. 10/10 points, would read again. Would likely not want to be employed where this was considered the highest art of management literature.