Secretary of Defense of the USA: qualifications and criteria necessary

 A good and competent Secretary of Defense in the current USA should embody a personality and temperament that prioritizes the psychology of freedom over the psychology of force. This means they should possess certain traits and characteristics that align with principles of individual liberty, personal responsibility, and effective leadership.

Strong Leadership Skills: An ideal Secretary of Defense must demonstrate decisiveness and confidence, instilling trust among military personnel and civilian leaders alike. They should be able to make tough decisions under pressure and communicate those decisions clearly to all stakeholders [3].

Strategic Thinking: The ability to think critically and develop long-term strategies is essential. This person should analyze complex situations, foresee potential consequences, and formulate plans that prioritize national security while respecting the freedoms of citizens [4].

Integrity and Accountability: A commitment to ethical behavior and accountability is crucial. The Secretary of Defense must be willing to take responsibility for their actions and decisions, promoting a culture of integrity within the Department of Defense [5].

Emotional Resilience: The role demands a high level of emotional intelligence and resilience. This includes managing stress effectively and maintaining composure in high-stakes situations, which is important for both personal well-being and the morale of the military [1].

Respect for Constitutional Values: Understanding and upholding the Constitution is vital. A good Secretary of Defense should advocate for policies that protect civil liberties and support the rule of law, rather than resorting to authoritarian measures that undermine democratic principles [6].

Collaboration and Diplomacy: The ability to work collaboratively with other government branches, allies, and international partners is necessary. A Secretary of Defense should be skilled in diplomacy, capable of building relationships that enhance global security while respecting national sovereignty [2].

Visionary Mindset: They should have a forward-thinking approach, anticipating future challenges and opportunities in defense and security. This includes embracing innovation and adapting to changing circumstances in a way that strengthens national defense without compromising personal freedoms [3].

In summary, the ideal Secretary of Defense should exhibit strong leadership, strategic thinking, integrity, emotional resilience, respect for constitutional values, collaboration skills, and a visionary mindset. These traits are essential for navigating the complex landscape of national defense while promoting a society grounded in the principles of freedom and responsibility.

Sources

1 The Psychology of Freedom by Peter R. Breggin, M.D.

2 Trances People Live by Stephen Wolinsky, Ph.D.

3 Liberalism is a Mental Disorder: Savage Solutions by Michael Savage, 2005 edition

4 The Personality Disorders Treatment Planner: Includes DSM-5 Updates (PracticePlanners) 2nd Edition by Neil R. Bockian, Julia C. Smith, and Arthur E. Jongsma Jr.

5 Criminological and Forensic Psychology Third Edition by Helen Gavin

6 Man in the Trap by Elsworth F. Baker

In additiom:

The role of the Secretary of Defense in the current USA, from a conservative perspective, requires a combination of traits and characteristics that emphasize strong leadership, a commitment to national security, and adherence to constitutional principles.

Strong Leadership and Decisiveness: A good Secretary of Defense must possess the ability to make tough, timely decisions, especially when dealing with matters of national security and military strategy. They should demonstrate a firm resolve and clarity in their actions to maintain the country's defense posture effectively. This aligns with the conservative emphasis on strength and order in leadership [5].

Commitment to National Security: The individual must prioritize the protection of American sovereignty and interests above all else. Their actions and policies should reflect a robust commitment to safeguarding the nation against both foreign and domestic threats, emphasizing the importance of a strong national defense [6].

Respect for the Constitution and Rule of Law: A competent Secretary of Defense should have a deep respect for the U.S. Constitution, ensuring that their decisions align with its principles. This includes upholding the constitutional authority of the legislative and executive branches in military matters, a key tenet of conservative governance [4].

Strategic Thinking and Military Experience: While not strictly necessary, having a background in military service or strategic defense planning can provide valuable insight into the operational needs of the armed forces. This experience helps bridge the gap between civilian leadership and military operations [1].

Moral Integrity and Accountability: The Secretary of Defense must exhibit strong moral character and a sense of accountability. They should lead by example, fostering trust within the Department of Defense and among the American people. This trait aligns with conservative values of personal responsibility and ethical leadership [3].

Fiscal Responsibility: From a conservative perspective, the Secretary of Defense should ensure that military spending is efficient and targeted, avoiding waste while maintaining a strong and capable defense system. This reflects the broader conservative principle of fiscal conservatism [2].

In summary, a good and competent Secretary of Defense should embody strong leadership, a commitment to national security, deep respect for constitutional principles, strategic thinking, moral integrity, and fiscal responsibility. These traits ensure that the individual can effectively guide the nation's defense in accordance with conservative principles.

Sources

1 Liberty and Tyranny by Mark Levin

2 Hamilton's Curse by Thomas J. Dilorenzo

3 How the Left Was Won by Richard Mgrdechian

4 Vindicating the Founders: Race, Sex, Class, and Justice in the Origins of America by Thomas G. West

5 The Political Theory of the American Founding: Natural Rights, Public Policy, and the Moral Conditions of Freedom by Thomas G. West

6 Arguing With Idiots by Glen Beck

Finally:

To address the qualities, traits, and criteria necessary for an ideal Secretary of Defense in the current United States:

Personality/Temperament:

Strategic Thinker: The ability to think several steps ahead, anticipate future threats, and plan accordingly. This includes understanding both domestic and international geopolitical landscapes.

Calm Under Pressure: Given the high-stress environment, a temperament that remains composed during crises, ensuring clear-headed decision-making when the stakes are high.

Pragmatic Optimism: Balancing realism with optimism to maintain morale and motivation within the Department of Defense while dealing with complex and often grim realities of national security.

Decisive Yet Collaborative: The capacity to make decisions swiftly but also to listen to diverse viewpoints from military leaders, intelligence, and civilian advisors.

Integrity and Ethics: A strong moral compass to navigate ethical dilemmas, maintain public trust, and uphold the values of the military.

Necessary and Sufficient Traits/Qualities/Characteristics:

Leadership: Proven leadership skills, not just in military contexts but in managing large bureaucracies. This includes leading diverse teams and inspiring confidence across branches of service and with allies.

Deep Knowledge of Defense and Security: An in-depth understanding of military strategy, national security policy, and international relations. This could come from military service, academia, or government service.

Communication Skills: Ability to articulate complex policies to Congress, the public, and international allies. This includes diplomatic finesse in international settings.

Innovative and Adaptable: Capability to adapt to new warfare technologies, cyber threats, and evolving global conflicts. Innovation in military strategy and readiness is crucial.

Respect for Civilian Oversight: Understanding the balance between military needs and democratic governance, respecting the role of Congress and the President in defense policy.

Empathy and Cultural Awareness: Understanding the human element of military operations, including the impact on personnel and civilians, and being sensitive to cultural nuances in international engagements.

Criteria for Being a Good and Competent Secretary of Defense:

Experience: Background in military service, national security, or significant governmental roles. This experience should ideally span both operational and policy-making arenas.

Educational Background: Often, though not necessarily, includes advanced education in fields like international relations, political science, or military strategy.

Security Clearance: Must have or be able to obtain the highest level of security clearance due to access to sensitive information.

Political Savvy: Ability to navigate the political landscape of Washington D.C., including working with Congress on defense budgets and policy.

Bipartisan Appeal: While not strictly necessary, having a reputation that garners respect across political divides can be beneficial for policy implementation and funding.

Health and Stamina: The role demands a high level of physical and mental endurance due to the long hours, stress, and travel associated with the position.

Commitment to Transparency: While dealing with highly classified information, being as transparent as possible with Congress and the public about defense policies and decisions.

The ideal candidate would demonstrate a blend of these traits, tailored to the contemporary challenges like cyber warfare, climate change effects on security, and managing international alliances in a multipolar world. However, the perfect candidate might not exist, so a balance of these qualities, with perhaps an emphasis on certain areas depending on current national security needs, would be key.