Gaza, Realism, and US Foreign Policy (Robert Wright & Emma Ashford)
Aug 19, 2024
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Emma Ashford, an author focused on US grand strategy, joins Robert Wright, a commentator on realism in foreign policy. They discuss Ashford's forthcoming book, emphasizing how the Gaza war undermines American interests. The conversation navigates the complexities of US foreign policy, including Taiwan's situation, the moral dilemmas of supporting Israel, and the risks facing American troops amid escalating conflicts in the Middle East. They advocate for a more restrained and cooperative approach to international relations, highlighting the evolving landscape of US foreign policy.
The speakers critique U.S. foreign policy by emphasizing how it undermines American interests and complicates international relations, particularly in Gaza.
They introduce 'realist internationalism' as a proposed grand strategy that balances U.S. interests with ethical considerations and promotes pragmatism in foreign policy.
Deep dives
Discontent with U.S. Foreign Policy
Both speakers express a shared discontent with the current trajectory of U.S. foreign policy, identifying the complexities and challenges in reevaluating it. They reflect on their alignment with realism in international relations while recognizing that different variations exist within this framework. The discussion centers on the importance of understanding state-centric motivations and recognizing how historical contexts influence foreign policy decisions. They also highlight the need for a more nuanced approach that goes beyond traditional perceptions of realism to encompass a variety of factors shaping international relations.
The Realities of Gaza
The speakers convey a critical view of ongoing events in Gaza, emphasizing the moral implications of U.S. support for Israeli actions. They argue that while these actions can be viewed through a realist lens, they also reflect broader concerns about U.S. national interests and strategic positioning in the region. The discussion reveals how realism helps to explain both Israeli and Palestinian actions, underscoring the need to consider political agency on both sides. Ultimately, they advocate for recognizing the detrimental effects that current U.S. policies may have on its global standing and internal stability.
Different Schools of Realism
The speakers explore the diversity within the realist school of thought, distinguishing between structural and offensive realism. They discuss the implications of these differing perspectives on foreign policy and the complexities of understanding state interactions amid systemic pressures. While some realists argue for a clearer focus on national interest using simple frameworks, others emphasize the need to incorporate domestic political factors. The conversation highlights how such distinctions can significantly shape U.S. policy decisions and the way states perceive threats and opportunities in the international arena.
Toward Realist Internationalism
The new notion of 'realist internationalism' is introduced as a grand strategy proposal that seeks to balance U.S. interests with a realistic view of global power dynamics. This approach advocates for a more pragmatic and restrained U.S. foreign policy, arguing against overcommitment and the pitfalls of interventionism. The discussion underscores the importance of aligning national interests with ethical considerations while navigating the complexities of modern diplomacy. Ultimately, the speakers express optimism that a more realist framework may gain traction in Washington, especially as views on global engagement evolve.
Emma’s forthcoming book on US grand strategy ... Gaza, Ukraine, and Mearsheimer’s realism ... The DC establishment’s dark view of world affairs ... How the Gaza war hurts American interests—and America itself ... Is the time ripe for realism and restraint? ... National problems that require international cooperation ... Heading to Overtime ...
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