Overview- This is a title I could not put down fast enough. The writing was well done, and the ideas presented well formulated and expertly presented, but the premise is incomplete and wrong, and rather ironic. America’s footprint in the world was something President Barack Obama looked to shrink in office because America’s footprint put a strain on military forces and sent the wrong message to the world from a deployment and involvement standpoint. When conflict arises outside the US, America would be on the front lines trying to stop it. This would come in the form of sending help whether it be aid or military assistance. This sent a message to the world that America is some kind of world police looking to protect and serve countries of the world instilling democracy, disbanding military operated states, and giving aid. This put a strain on America who had and has its own problems. The Obama administration put forth a plan to focus on the domestic politics namely healthcare and other things nationally. This book gives the perspective America would be in retreat if it continued this path and fear of losing its hegemon status and this overall would leave America vulnerable to attack from China and Russia literally or figuratively like the cold war. This though logical is not accurate as all nations at the end of the day must deal with their own issues. From the Iraq debacle to the destabilization of Afghanistan, Americas footprint can be oppressive, expensive and push countries into terrorism which causes even more problems. Though a good read its premise I disagree with.
Theme- America must have a footprint in the world to sustain itself and protect itself.
Biggest takeaway- Republican ideology of America being the police of the world can be professionally written and well stated but it is wholly inaccurate and incomplete. America is not isolated when its focuses its intention on the domestic issues which are central to its citizens. America is not in retreat when it tries to eradicate people from crippling debt due to medical bills; and America is not causing a global disorder when it decides to give disenfranchised a voice and actual policy making behind that voice which truly helps.
Overall Satisfaction – 7.0/10 Good read
Comments on the Author – Bret Stephens is a writer for the Wall Street Journal, a right leaning paper with conservative ideology. He is a great writer and this book bears witness to the fact.
Comments