Do Morals Matter?: Presidents and Foreign Policy from FDR to Trump

Joseph S. Nye, Jr. provides a concise yet penetrating analysis of the role of ethics in US foreign policy during the American era after 1945, scoring each presidency on three ethical dimensions of their intentions, means, and consequences. He suggests how to do it better, factoring in both the political context and the availability of resources when deciding how to implement an ethical policy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2020
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Americans are known for their strong opinions on presidents and foreign policy, but unfortunately, many of these judgments are not well-informed. A president's actions are often judged solely based on their outcomes, without considering the moral implications of their decisions. In his book "Do Morals Matter?", Joseph S. Nye, Jr., one of the world's leading scholars of international relations, delves into the role of ethics in US foreign policy during the American era after 1945. Nye analyzes each presidency, from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Donald Trump, on three ethical dimensions: intentions, means, and consequences. He also assesses the leadership qualities of these presidents, discussing which approaches have been effective and which have failed.

Regardless of a president's policy preferences, Nye argues that each president had some degree of autonomy in making their foreign policy decisions. He emphasizes the ethical consequences of inaction, such as Truman's decision to accept a stalemate in Korea rather than resort to nuclear weapons. Since moral reasoning is often applied to foreign policy, Nye offers suggestions for how it can be done better.

Firstly, presidents need to consider the political context and the availability of resources when implementing ethical policies. This is particularly important in the future, as the world faces a host of transnational threats, including the illegal drug trade, infectious diseases, terrorism, cybercrime, and climate change. By taking these factors into account, presidents can make more informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of both their own country and the global community.

Another important aspect of ethical foreign policy is the need for transparency and accountability. Presidents should be open about their intentions and decisions, and they should be willing to accept responsibility for their actions. This can help build trust between nations and promote a more peaceful and stable international system.

In conclusion, the role of ethics in US foreign policy is crucial, and it is essential for presidents to consider the moral implications of their decisions. By analyzing the ethical dimensions of foreign policy and assessing the leadership qualities of presidents, Nye provides valuable insights into how to make more informed and ethical decisions in the global arena.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 238 x 164 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190935962