Grand Strategies of the Left: The Foreign Policy of Progressive Worldmaking

Progressives are critical of US foreign policy and the national security state because they prioritize peace, democracy, and equality. A statecraft that pulls ideas from the American left would prioritize these interconnected conditions and use foreign policy to create a more just and stable world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Why are progressives often critical of US foreign policy and the national security state?

Progressives frequently criticize US foreign policy and the national security state due to a range of concerns and beliefs. Here are some key reasons why progressives may be critical of these institutions:

Peace and Democracy: Progressives believe that lasting security and peace can only be achieved through the promotion of democracy and human rights. They argue that the US foreign policy often prioritizes the interests of corporations and military-industrial complexes over the needs and aspirations of local populations. This can lead to conflicts, instability, and the violation of human rights.

Equality and Social Justice: Progressives believe that the US foreign policy should prioritize the reduction of inequality and the promotion of social justice around the world. They argue that the US has often supported authoritarian regimes and policies that have marginalized and oppressed marginalized communities, such as women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

Climate Change: Progressives are deeply concerned about the impact of climate change on global security and the well-being of people around the world. They argue that the US foreign policy has been insufficient in addressing the causes of climate change and in supporting efforts to mitigate its effects.

Non-Interventionism: Progressives believe that the US should prioritize diplomacy and non-interventionism over military force as a means of achieving its foreign policy goals. They argue that military interventions often have unintended consequences, such as the displacement of populations, the spread of terrorism, and the escalation of conflicts.

A Statecraft that Pulls Ideas from the American Left

If progressives were to shape US foreign policy, they would likely prioritize the following ideas:

Peace and Democracy Promotion: Progressives would prioritize the promotion of democracy and human rights in all foreign policy decisions. This would include supporting local movements for political change, promoting free and fair elections, and defending the rights of marginalized communities.

Equality and Social Justice: Progressives would prioritize the reduction of inequality and the promotion of social justice around the world. This would include supporting efforts to address climate change, promote gender equality, and protect the rights of workers and immigrants.

Non-Interventionism: Progressives would prioritize diplomacy and non-interventionism over military force as a means of achieving US foreign policy goals. This would include engaging in multilateral diplomacy and building alliances with other countries to address global challenges such as climate change and terrorism.

Humanitarian Aid: Progressives would prioritize providing humanitarian aid and support to vulnerable populations around the world. This would include supporting refugees, providing access to healthcare and education, and addressing the root causes of conflict and poverty.

Conclusion

Progressives have a range of concerns and beliefs about US foreign policy and the national security state. They believe that these institutions often prioritize the interests of corporations and military-industrial complexes over the needs and aspirations of local populations. If progressives were to shape US foreign policy, they would likely prioritize the promotion of peace and democracy, the reduction of inequality and social justice, non-interventionism, and humanitarian aid. While there are risks and dilemmas associated with progressive worldmaking, it expands how we imagine what the world is and could be.

Weight: 454g
ISBN-13: 9781316518663