You're right. I moved the heading to an economic platform, with a soft jab at T. B.s predilection for God-fearing Capitalism.

On a geo-political level you're right.

Now, if one were a capitalistic, one could say that at any given point the barbarians were the most productive, having invested in those items which improved their efficiency, and deserve the spoils.

What's capitalism if it isn't efficient and innovative.

And in a democracy, the entire group must include the barbarians, or they will take "it". "Reparations" is another example of the "barbarians at the door".

And, you're right regarding the larger view of this.

Arf