Idea Ripper // ArchiveCards: 1555 [Live] | Updated: 2026-10-14
Card #c993IR // #c993Synthesis

Breckinridge Long’s 1940 memo ordered consuls to “put every obstacle in the way” and use “various administrative devices which would postpone and postpone and postpone the granting of the visas.” Bureaucracy kills without ever saying no.

— In our words · Source: The Devil's Chessboard (David Talbot)

[Use when]

You must block something you cannot be seen blocking. Add steps, not walls.

[Why it matters]

Delay is deniable. No refusal exists to appeal, only process. The outcome is identical to a ban.

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