Gore Vidal's book, "Perpetual War for Perpetual Peace," critiques the FBI's actions during the Waco siege, describing it as a tragic event where innocent lives were lost. He draws parallels between the government's extreme measures and the radical principles of Jacobinism, suggesting that such violent enforcement is indicative of a broader pattern in American history. The Waco incident symbolizes an aggressive approach to dissent that is reminiscent of the revolutionary fervor seen during the French Revolution.

Vidal's analysis highlights the consequences of state power when exercised without accountability, portraying the FBI's siege as emblematic of a recurring cycle of violence justified under the guise of maintaining order. By framing it as a "Jacobin enterprise," Vidal emphasizes the ideological motives behind government aggression, suggesting that the quest for control often leads to the sacrifice of innocent lives. This perspective invites readers to critically evaluate the implications of government actions in the context of freedom and liberty.