Retreat and its Consequences: American Foreign Policy and the Problem of World Order
Cambridge University Press, 5/3/2016
EAN 9781316506714, ISBN10: 1316506711
Paperback, 154 pages, 22.7 x 15.2 x 0.8 cm
Language: English
What are the consequences of retreat and retrenchment in foreign policy? In recent years, America has pulled back from its long-time role of international leadership. In doing so the Obama administration has sought to conciliate adversaries, shown indifference to allies; called upon the international community to step in; proclaimed and then disavowed 'red lines'; and preferred to lead from behind in the face of catastrophic civil war in Syria, ISIS barbarism in the Middle East and North Africa, Russia's predatory behavior in Eastern Europe, and China's muscle-flexing in East Asia. The consequences of this 'realist' experiment have been costly and painful, and it has caused the US to lose credibility with friends and foes. America retains the capacity to lead, but unless it resumes a more robust role, the world is likely to become a more dangerous place, with mounting threats not only to regional stability and international order, but to the national interests of America itself.
1. Foreign policy retreat and the problem of world order
2. Burden sharing with Europe
problems of capability and will
3. Middle East policy
regional conflicts and threats to national interest
4. BRICS
stakeholders or free-riders?
5. Retreat and its consequences
6. Can America still lead - and should it?