chapter 3 U.S. Foreign Policy

Chapter Overview

• Focus on the influence of global context on American power and the implications for U.S. foreign policy.

• Historical context and events, such as the Cold War and post-9/11 situations, shape the dynamics between national security and democracy.

Understanding Global Context

• Global context defined as the external environment influencing U.S. government and society, including resources and technology.

• Developments in the global environment significantly impact U.S. foreign policy.

Underlying Conditions of Foreign Policy

• Global patterns impact the framework of U.S. foreign policy, indicating potential actions based on international conditions.

• Major world events can prompt immediate political responses within the U.S., influencing agenda and policymaking.

Psychological vs. Objective Environment

• Distinction between how perceptions of the environment affect human decision-making and actions.

• Two modes of influence:

  • Perceptions shape attitudes and decisions.

  • Objective conditions set limits to action.

Historical Background and American Power

The Cold War Era (1940s-1960s)

• East-West conflict emerged post-World War II, leading to American and Soviet dominance.

• American power grew following the war; the U.S. became a global superpower.

• Cold War characterized by attempts to contain Soviet influence globally.

The Rise of the East-West Conflict

• The decline of European empires led to U.S. and Soviet expansion in global affairs.

• Key events included ideological clashes, territorial disputes, and the mutual suspicion between superpowers.

Consequences on U.S. Foreign Policy

• Cold War led to the establishment of a strong national security apparatus and presidential dominance in foreign affairs.

• Major events (e.g., Korean War, Cuban Missile Crisis) consolidated U.S. policy focused on containment and anti-communism.

Global Complexity and American Decline (1960s-1980s)

Increased Global Pluralism

• Rise of other global powers, economic interdependence, and technological changes complicated U.S. foreign policy strategies.

• Issues surrounding the Vietnam War showcased challenges in U.S. foreign intervention.

Relative Decline of American Power

• Although the U.S. remains a significant power, increased competition and global complexities have limited its influence relative to earlier decades.

• Key economic indicators highlighted decline: reduced share of global production and growing economic challenges domestically.

Vietnam War and Policy Challenges

• Vietnam represented the struggle against the complexities of a global landscape, leading to a more pluralistic approach to foreign policy.

• The failure in Vietnam reshaped U.S. politics, while fostering skepticism about military interventions.

Post-Cold War Era and New Challenges (1990s-Present)

Globalization and American Renewal

• After the fall of communism, the U.S. emerged as the sole superpower but faced new challenges in managing foreign relations.

• Focus shifted towards economic integration and addressing non-traditional security issues (e.g. terrorism).

September 11, 2001, and Its Implications

• Modern-day foreign policy grapples with the impacts of terrorism, leading to military engagements based on a perceived need for security.

• The U.S. becomes involved in global conflicts, highlighting the challenges of maintaining power while addressing international relations in a complex landscape.

Theoretical Perspectives on American Power

The Competing Schools of Thought

• Conservative Realism: Views world as anarchic; importance of state power and military capabilities.

• Liberal Idealism: Emphasizes cooperation and interdependence among states.

• Social Globalism: Focuses on the inequalities of the international system and the effects of capitalism.

Conclusion

• The future of U.S. foreign policy will depend on navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing world.

• An understanding of the relationship between domestic politics and global challenges is crucial to anticipate the evolving landscape of U.S. engagement in international affairs.