Critically examine the foreign policy of America.

Ans. 

Introduction:

Palmer and Perkins have written - "Sometimes it is said that America does not have any foreign policy at all, but such an analysis is very superficial. Like any other state, America also has its own foreign policies." In the early days of the American republic, when foreign affairs were less important, America followed some basic principles. Some of those principles have become traditional and American foreign policy has largely been based on them. The most important principles among them are - security, expansion and neutrality. 

According to Samuel Bemis, the following principles are the mainstay of American foreign policy:

1. Sovereign independence,
2. Continental expansion,
3. Staying away from the general events and fluctuations of European politics,
4. Rejection of colonialist principles,
5. The principle that the colonies of the Western Hemisphere should not be transferred among the European states,
6. Freedom of international trade,
7. The principle of self-determination,
8. Freedom of the seas, 
9. Non-intervention, and
10. According to Anti-imperialist sentiment (Peffer), the 'permanent principles' of American foreign policy are:

• Isolationism,
• The Monroe Doctrine,
• Freedom of the seas,
• The open door policy.

America has followed the appropriate principles in its foreign policy, but it has also made some modifications to these principles. Some principles have become outdated over time and are meaningless in the present, so the principles of American foreign policy have changed somewhat according to the times and circumstances. Still, the current American foreign policy is influenced by both traditional principles and current interests and circumstances.

The geographical and historical elements that determine American foreign policy, the political and social system, economic prosperity, military power, the policies of other states and the global environment etc. 

American national interest is linked to permanent world peace and stability of the international community. America sees its independence, security and welfare in this. American interests, power and responsibilities are global. The three fundamental elements that influence American foreign policy are - America, Russia and the United Nations.

America's geographical location has been an important basis for determining its foreign policy. America's eastern, western and most of the southern borders are surrounded by the sea. Its borders meet with Canada in the north and Mexico in the south, but its security is not threatened by this. From the security point of view, America is in an advantageous position, because it is located far from centers that can be attacked.

Economically, America is the most prosperous country in the world. The economies of many countries of the world depend on American aid. Only because of its strong economic position is America able to fulfill its responsibilities in Europe, Asia and Africa. Economic aid has an important role in determining American foreign policy.

In terms of military power too, America is the foremost country in the world. Russia is the only country that has the capacity to match it. America's best position in the world today is also due to its military power. Most countries in the world buy supplies from America for their security. Its capacity is the highest in the world. 

America determines its foreign policy based on the policies of other countries of the world towards it. It gives Pakistan top priority in its policy in South Asia, because Pakistan's policy is favorable to America. Similarly, America's policy is unfavorable towards India, because India's foreign policy views Russia as close and America as distant to some extent. 

At the same time, American foreign policy also depends on the changing global environment. It brings changes in its policy along with changes in international politics. Initially, America's policy was to stay away from world conflicts. It kept itself away from treaties that created turmoil, but after World War II, America had to bring changes in its policy. It was forced to counter the communist power of Russia, so it formulated its policy in such a way that it could serve its own interests and the interests of Western countries.

After World War II, America and Russia remained the two supreme powers, so America had to face a new situation. Now it was not only a great power of the world but also the leader of the anti-communist and anti-Russian Western world. No nation other than America had the strength to bear this heavy responsibility in the Western world, so it was necessary for America to accept worldwide responsibilities.

But according to Palmer and Perkins, "From the experience of history and by nature and inclination, the American people have set the following goals for world policy:

1. Territorial integrity and security of the United States - 

Like any nation, America's top priority is the territorial integrity and security of the nation. The traditional isolationist policy of America also aimed to achieve this goal. For more than the first hundred years of its republic, America stayed away from international responsibilities, but over time the meaning of the word 'security' changed and America realized that the freedom of other countries of the world was inherent in America's freedom. Excessive power in the hands of an opposing force is itself a threat to America's security. The First and Second World Wars made it clear to America that for its security it is necessary that not only Europe but also Asia maintain a balance of power. Modern technology has reduced the distance of the world, so events in Europe and Asia have become even more important for America than before. America has made it clear that it will prevent the expansion of influence of any power in Europe and Asia in the 20th century. This is in America's national interest. America considers the spread of communism in Europe and Asia as the main threat to its security. With this objective, America has tried to maintain a balance with Russia and China. As a result of this policy, America has supported West Germany in Europe and Japan in Asia.

2. International peace and security - 

Establishing world peace is also a goal of American foreign policy. For the purpose of world peace and security, America supported the establishment of the United Nations in 1945. In June 1949, President Truman outlined three necessary conditions for establishing permanent peace in the world: 

• (i) America must be powerful and prosperous,
• (ii) Other nations believing in peace and freedom must also be powerful and prosperous,
• (iii) An international organization must be established that can resolve international disputes and establish peace. American aid for the reconstruction of Europe and economic assistance to Asian and African countries is only possible if America itself is powerful and prosperous.

War has been condemned by American foreign policymakers. Americans generally consider themselves peace-loving, but as far as the Cold War is concerned, America wants victory in it. The Cold War was the main issue of American foreign policy after World War II. The efforts made by America to contain the spread of communism are the results of the Cold War.

3. According to America, 'peace is indivisible' -

 America is not only concerned about its own peace but also wants that the peace of other nations should not be disrupted. In 1950, the U.S. Secretary of State Acheson said, "The interests of the United States are global in character. A threat to the peace of the world anywhere is a threat to our security."

So in summary, the key goals of American foreign policy have been national security, promoting international peace, and maintaining America's position as a global superpower able to influence events around the world. While specific policies and approaches have evolved over time, this focus on security, peace, and global leadership has remained quite consistent.