In Gore Vidal's book "I Told You So: Gore Vidal Talks Politics," he argues that there is a push to reinstate military engagement in Europe, despite the prevailing isolationist sentiment among Americans. He highlights the tension between government motivations and the general public's reluctance to become entangled in foreign conflicts, which reflects a broader national attitude of self-preservation.

Vidal also suggests that the demonization of global events stems from the necessity of maintaining an isolationist stance. He believes that many Americans prefer to avoid foreign wars, indicating a complex relationship between American identity and military involvement, shaped by historical context and public opinion.