Every human being has his demons to fight.
Some of us win while others loose
In war or other desperate times it all depends on what kind of leadership we have.
In the German case, it is easy to see where the "losers" went. With such a system as the Germans adopted
"ruthless" individuals could all to easily manipulate the system.
But it was there just for the taking and just like today there are always individuals ready to use whatever
it takes.
For the Russians it was more or less the same. Manipulated by the Government the coveted HSU
was probably overwhelming to many, resulting in an incredible overclaiming.
In Japan it was the codex of the past that counted. And nobody ever questioned that, resulting in
probably the worst overclaiming of the war.
On the Allied side it is more difficult so see the benefit, even if the "aces" were glorified as well.
So far most researchers seems to believe the Allied overclaimed in good faith, but I think there were
enough "culprits" among them as well, even if the German aces have so far been the focus on TOCH.
Me? Oh I think all systems regardless of leadership always lead up to individuals using the system
to their benefit.
Human nature - Darwin if you like - survival of the fittest, either in nature itself, or the systems created....
Likeability? Don't ask since it depends on where you and me belongs.....
Cheers
Stig