Intelligence Squared The Sunday Debate: Is America a force for good in the world? Part 1
6 snips
Nov 6, 2022 
Shadi Hamid, a foreign policy expert and author of "The Problem of Democracy," contends that America's influence often acts as a force for good, pressuring authoritarian regimes and supporting democracies. In contrast, Samuel Moyn, an academic and author of "Humane," argues that while there are worse global alternatives, America's interventions have caused significant harm. The debate dives into America's complex roles in democracy, climate challenges, and its resilience against authoritarianism, offering a nuanced view of U.S. actions on the world stage.
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Relative Good
- Shadi Hamid argues that the US is a force for good relative to other global powers.
- He believes that a post-American world would likely see China fill the power vacuum.
Formative Experience
- Shadi Hamid's perspective on US foreign policy was shaped by 9/11 and the subsequent wars.
- He initially viewed America's role negatively, influenced by leftist critiques.
Power Vacuum
- The absence of US hegemony could lead to increased Chinese influence, economically and militarily.
- The current global political climate, including China's aggression and the war in Ukraine, illustrates this risk.
