Trevor Thrall and Emma Ashford from Power Problems Podcast join us to discuss the nuance differences between isolationists, non-interventionists, and pragmatic realists. When it comes to foreign policy, the way U.S. officials make decisions is largely based off the fact that the United States maintains and all-volunteer military. This military is the most powerful in the world, considering the U.S. spends more on defense than the next seven countries combined. There are many reasons for this, but at the forefront is the American desire to remain #1 or the superpower in the eyes of the rest of the world. 

What is the difference between an isolationist and a pragmatic realist? When do policymakers decide when intervention is necessary? What are real threats? What is John Bolton’s philosophy on foreign affairs? What is the main role of our military? Do we have an obligation to keep America safe, but not all humans safe? Are U.S. policymakers only responsible for Americans? Or the entire Western world? What is the interplay between technology, news, public opinion, and military strategy? Is joining the military the only way to serve your country? 

Further Reading:

Power Problems, by the Cato Institute

The Future of Conservative Foreign Policy, Power Problems Podcast

The Hell of Good Intentions: America’s Foreign Policy Elite and the Decline of U.S. Primacy, written by Stephen Walt

Psychology of a Superpower: Security and Dominance in U.S. Foreign Policy, written by Christopher J. Fettweis

Related Content:

Is America the Most Fearful Country in the World?, written by Natalie Dowzicky

When is it appropriate to go to War?, Free Thoughts Podcast

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