Yes, but this is America, where the worst insult is to be called a "loser," and where to criticize even the stupidest war is to be labeled a "defeatist."

Meanwhile, management gurus speak of "win-win" scenarios, because talk of losing must be avoided at all costs. Even compromise is suspect.

To modify an old expression, if not he who dies with most toys, wins, it seems we in America believe that he who dies with the most weapons, wins.

So, we'll embrace our weapons--very tightly indeed--before we embrace defeat.