Experts Discuss Civil-Military Relations in New Book

Kori Schake joins podcast to examine history and challenges of civilian control of the military

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Eric Edelman and Eliot Cohen welcome Kori Schake, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, to discuss her new book "The State and the Soldier: A History of Civil-Military Relations in the United States." They explore Schake's critique of Samuel Huntington's influential work "The Soldier and the State," examine George Washington's resignation of his military commission, and discuss the role of charismatic but unhinged military figures in American politics.

Why it matters

The relationship between civilian leadership and the military is a crucial aspect of American democracy. Schake's book provides historical context and analysis on this important dynamic, which has significant implications for national security, the balance of power, and the role of the military in society.

The details

In their discussion, Edelman, Cohen, and Schake delve into key moments and themes in the history of civil-military relations in the United States. They critique Huntington's influential work, which argued for a strict separation between civilian and military spheres. The guests also examine George Washington's consequential decision to resign his military commission before the Continental Congress, as well as the challenges posed by charismatic but unstable military figures who have sought political power.

  • The discussion took place on February 9, 2026.

The players

Kori Schake

A senior fellow and director of foreign and defense policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute, and the author of the new book "The State and the Soldier: A History of Civil-Military Relations in the United States."

Eric Edelman

A co-host of the "Shield of the Republic" podcast, which is co-sponsored by the Miller Center of Public Affairs at the University of Virginia.

Eliot Cohen

A co-host of the "Shield of the Republic" podcast, which is co-sponsored by the Miller Center of Public Affairs at the University of Virginia.

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What’s next

The discussion and analysis of civil-military relations is an ongoing topic, and Schake's book is likely to spur further debate and scholarship in this area.

The takeaway

The relationship between civilian leadership and the military is a crucial aspect of American democracy, and Schake's book offers valuable historical perspective and analysis on this important dynamic.