Lecture on U.S. Foreign Policy

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, terms, and definitions related to U.S. foreign policy as discussed in the lecture.

Foreign Policy

Programs and policies that determine America's relations with other nations and foreign entities.

Security

A key goal of foreign policy focused on protection against threats from hostile entities.

Isolationism

A principle of foreign policy where a country avoids involvement in the affairs of other nations.

Containment

A policy designed to curtail the political and military expansion of a hostile power.

Preventive War

A policy of striking first when a nation fears that a foreign foe is contemplating hostile action.

Appeasement

An effort to forestall war by giving in to the demands of a hostile power.

Deterrence

A policy aimed at preventing hostile action by threatening retaliation.

Non-state Actors

Groups other than nation-states that attempt to play a role in the international system.

Diplomacy

The representation of a government to other governments to promote national values or interests by peaceful means.

Economic Aid

Funds provided by a country to another to promote economic development and security.

Sanctions

Penalties imposed by one country on another to influence its behavior.

Soft Power

Efforts by one nation to influence others by persuasion rather than coercion.

Collective Security

The development of alliances to fend off security threats.

World Trade Organization (WTO)

An international organization that regulates trade between nations.

International Monetary Fund (IMF)

An international organization that provides loans and facilitates international monetary exchange.

Nuclear Proliferation

The spread of nuclear weapons and technology to countries not recognized as nuclear-weapon states.

Human Rights

The basic rights and freedoms that belong to all individuals.

Congressional Role in Foreign Policy

Congress has the power to declare war and control financing for military action.

Executive Agreements

Agreements made by the president with other countries that do not require Senate approval.

Bretton Woods

A 1944 agreement that established a new economic order and institutions like the IMF and World Bank.