[YAOT] US foreign policy (poll and discussion)

[Krsqk]

Here's the basic discussion I'd like to initiate. These statements do not necessarily reflect my opinion; they are intended to provoke thoughtful discussion.

- Military: The US has the largest, most powerful, and most widespread military in the world, possessing bases in many countries. They have been involved in many conflicts worldwide in this century, which has undeniably provoked anger in some circles. They have also played a major part in stopping the aggression of some pretty major threats in the two World Wars.

- Politics/Alliances: The US has been involved in two major international Groups (NATO and UN). They have also supported one group or another in many smaller international, and even national, squabbles. Many times, they have supported arguably evil people because they were against another arguably evil person who was unfriendly to US interests. While sometimes US involvement was welcomed and/or prevented the spread of evil, it has also brought about resentment and the perception of the US as an "empire-builder."

- Wealth: The US is the wealthiest country on earth. Its citizens partake of a lifestyle of which most the world has never dreamed. It also spends a large percentage of its wealth on foreign aid, has forgiven substantial debts owed it by other countries, and has invested billions to rebuild countries which intended its destruction. Some resent US financial involvement, saying it is another means of establishing an American Empire; few, however, deny that they envy the financial ease of the American lifestyle.

One other thing I've been hearing more of recently is the following view: "All right--the US will pull its military out of places that don't want us; we'll stay out of neighborhood disputes; we won't engage in conflicts such as Iraq; we'll basically cease our international military involvement--and we'll cut off all our international financial involvement, as well. It's all or nothing." I'm sure there will be a lot to be said about that viewpoint.

The poll covers your opinions on US military involvement, political involvement, financial involvement, and overall involvement. You are choosing what you think it should be, not what you think it currently is. I realize there probably isn't an option in the poll for some of your views. Please pick the point on the scale you feel most closely reflects your opinion.

[ April 01, 2003, 15:02: Message edited by: Krsqk ]