Reflecting on the historical context revealed through Argentina's Dirty War, it becomes evident that meritocratic military systems can create powerful incentives for individuals to engage in reprehensible actions in order to secure career advancement. This dynamic is not unique to that time or place—it echoes in various authoritarian regimes including Stalin's Russia, Nazi Germany, Venezuela’s rise to fascism, and Hungary's political shifts. From personal reading and analysis, I've noticed a recurring pattern: when individuals find themselves struggling or failing within a meritocratic framework that rewards only success, they may take morally questionable paths to maintain or improve their status. This was starkly visible in Argentina's military, where joining brutal squads like Squad 60 was sometimes the only way to avoid forced retirement and continue their careers. Interestingly, this sheds light on why ICE agents today often attract criticism and why stereotypes about them—including being ignorant or hostile—persist. It’s not merely about individual failings but about systemic incentives that encourage certain behaviors. People in such roles may feel compelled to perform difficult and psychologically damaging tasks to advance, which can lead to patterns of misconduct and abuse. Understanding this historical and psychological context is crucial for discussions about reform and accountability in law enforcement agencies. It reminds us that addressing individual behavior is important but insufficient without also considering the underlying structures and incentives influencing that behavior. On a personal level, this insight has deepened my appreciation for the complexity of institutional roles and human nature. Before, I might have been quick to judge individuals based on headlines or stereotypes. However, learning about these historical meritocratic pressures highlights the need for systemic change to prevent such harmful incentives from persisting across different organizations and eras.