Chapter 17: Overview of U.S. Foreign Policy

What is foreign policy?

Goals that a state's officials seek to attain abroad, values that support these goals, and methods to pursue these goals.

Who controls foreign policy in the United States?

The President of the United States, although Congress also has a role.

What are the primary objectives of the United States' foreign policy?

Protection of the United States and its citizens, securing resources and markets, maintaining a balance of power, and enforcing human rights.

What is the most recognized international organization?

The United Nations.

What was NATO's purpose during the Cold War?

To counter the influence of Russia.

What is free trade?

A policy where countries freely trade with each other.

What is protection of trade?

A policy where countries choose not to freely trade with other countries.

What does balance of trade refer to?

The inflow and outflow of goods to and from other countries.

What is soft power in foreign policy?

The utilization of non-military tools to influence other nations.

What is hard power in foreign policy?

The use of military force or the option to use military force to deal with another nation.

What is the European Union?

A single entity concerning economic activity among its member states.

How does the United States utilize foreign aid?

Strategically to help other nations.

What are public laws?

Enacted statutes that affect more than a single individual.

What is the treaty process controlled by?

The United States Constitution (Article II).

What is a sole executive agreement?

An agreement negotiated and approved by the president.

What is a congressional-executive agreement?

An agreement where the president negotiates and Congress approves it.

What is the two-presidency thesis?

A theory that the president has two distinct and separate leadership roles: foreign policy and domestic policy.

What is isolationism in foreign policy?

A stance where a country stays out of world affairs.

What is liberal internationalism?

An approach where the United States is proactive in world events.

What does grand strategy entail?

The utilization of all methods of foreign policy.

What was the purpose of containment during the Cold War?

To stop the spread of communism.

What does neoconservatism promote in foreign policy?

The use of hard power.

What is neo-isolationism?

A desire for limited involvement with international organizations.

What is selective engagement?

The use of alliances and military presence across the world.

What areas of interest are significant in U.S. foreign policy?

China, Russia, the Middle East, South America, Asia, Europe, Central America, and the Arctic Region.