The Art of War in an Age of Peace: U.S. Grand Strategy and Resolute Restraint

Michael OHanlon offers a new grand strategy for post-2020 American foreign policy, avoiding the dangers of retrenchment and overextension. He proposes a "4+1" set of threats to complement the Pentagon's "4+1" pre-existing threats, including biological, nuclear, digital, climatic, and internal dangers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 11 October 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

A comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to American foreign policy post-2020 is essential to navigate the complex and interconnected challenges of the global landscape. In this essay, we will explore the opposing dangers of retrenchment and overextension and propose a new grand strategy that aims to strike a balance between these two extremes.

Historical Context:

The United States has been the world's dominant superpower for over a century, and its foreign policy has played a pivotal role in shaping the global order. However, the post-Cold War era has seen a shift in the balance of power, with the rise of China and Russia as significant global actors. Policymakers in the United States have grappled with the challenge of articulating a coherent and effective grand strategy that addresses the evolving threats and opportunities in the world.

The Opposing Dangers of Retrenchment and Overextension:

Retrenchment:

Retrenchment refers to a policy of reducing military spending, reducing involvement in international affairs, and focusing on domestic issues. While this approach may be appealing in times of economic uncertainty or political polarization, it can also lead to a decline in American influence and a loss of its role as a global leader.

Overextension:

Overextension, on the other hand, involves a policy of excessive military intervention, engagement in foreign conflicts, and pursuit of global dominance. This approach can be costly in terms of human lives, financial resources, and international goodwill. It can also lead to instability, resentment, and the emergence of new threats.

A New Grand Strategy:

To address these opposing dangers, we propose a new grand strategy that aims to balance American interests with the needs of the global community. This strategy should be based on a comprehensive understanding of the threats and opportunities facing the United States and the world.

First and foremost, the new grand strategy should prioritize the protection of American citizens and the security of the United States homeland. This includes investing in homeland security, counterterrorism, and intelligence capabilities to prevent and respond to threats.

At the same time, the strategy should recognize the importance of American leadership in the global community. This includes promoting democracy, human rights, and economic development around the world. The United States should work to foster stability and peace through diplomatic engagement, economic assistance, and humanitarian aid.

In addition to traditional threats, the new grand strategy should also address emerging threats such as cyber warfare, climate change, and biological weapons. These threats pose significant risks to global security and require a coordinated response from the international community.

Conclusion:

A comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to American foreign policy post-2020 is essential to navigate the complex and interconnected challenges of the global landscape. By avoiding the opposing dangers of retrenchment and overextension, the United States can maintain its position as a global leader and promote stability and peace in the world.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300268119