U.S. Foreign Policy Principles: Washington, Hegemony, and Offshore Balancing

What is Washington's core principle regarding foreign policy?

The U.S. should pursue peace and harmony with all nations while avoiding permanent political entanglements.

Why does Washington warn against permanent alliances?

They entangle U.S. interests with foreign ambitions, rivalries, and conflicts unrelated to American security.

What danger do habitual hatreds or fondness toward other nations pose?

They make a nation a 'slave' to emotion rather than reason, distorting judgment and policy.

How does Washington describe foreign influence in republics?

One of the most dangerous threats to republican government, capable of corrupting factions and public opinion.

What is Washington's recommended commercial policy?

Expand trade broadly while minimizing political commitments; commerce without entanglement.

Why does Washington believe neutrality is achievable for the U.S.?

Geographic distance and unity under a strong government give the U.S. strategic independence.

What moral argument does Washington make about foreign policy?

National virtue and justice are tied to long-term national happiness and stability.

What is offshore balancing?

A realist U.S. grand strategy focused on preventing regional hegemons while avoiding unnecessary military intervention.

What strategy do Mearsheimer and Walt criticize most?

Liberal hegemony: using U.S. power to promote democracy and manage global politics.

Why is liberal hegemony considered a failure?

It led to costly wars, instability, terrorism, and erosion of U.S. legitimacy without improving global order.

What regions matter most under offshore balancing?

Europe, Northeast Asia, and the Persian Gulf (regions capable of producing a hegemon).

How should the U.S. respond to regional threats?

Let local powers balance first; intervene directly only if a hegemon is likely to emerge.

Why does offshore balancing reduce terrorism risk?

It avoids military occupation and regime change that fuel nationalist resentment.

How does offshore balancing affect U.S. defense spending?

It significantly reduces costs by limiting overseas deployments and endless wars.

What historical precedent supports offshore balancing?

U.S. strategy before and during the World Wars, intervening only when balances collapsed.

Why do Mearsheimer and Walt reject democracy promotion by force?

It rarely works, destabilizes societies, and undermines liberal values at home.