The world of international affairs is a complex series of lengthy debates between cranky politicians. But, as the third most populous and richest country in the world, we have a direct responsibility to use our wealth and power for the benefit of other countries. It should fall to us to be the center of debate and positive change. And according to The Perspective, during the “last decade, America’s foreign policy has veered away from its historical preference for isolationism”
Pew Research Center claims, “more people think the best way to ensure peace is through good diplomacy rather than military strength.” The US has a long history of successful diplomatic affairs. One of the earliest examples is Benjamin Franklin signing the Treaty of Alliance in 1778, which guaranteed French support during the American Revolution. In 1978, our recently deceased president Jimmy Carter negotiated with Egypt and Israel the Camp David Accords to bring peace to the Middle East. Similarly, in 1998, Bill Clinton worked with the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland to form the Good Friday agreement, which ended the violence at the time called The Troubles.
A recent example of diplomatic success is the cease fire between Israel and Hamas in part due to American involvement. These examples prove that the US can be involved in international affairs using diplomacy and not violence for the greater good.
The US when using their military might have caused more bad than good at times. The Perspective states, “When core US interests, such as the security of its citizens, are at stake, Americans may have no choice but to bear these consequences. But more often, the consequences of military action outweigh the benefits.” I agree with this statement. For example, when the US was involved in the Vietnam War, it ultimately led to the death of thousands of Americans with minimal resolution. Before the Vietnam War, Truman involved us in the Korean War and around 1.5 million people lost their lives, also with minimal resolution.
I believe this level of casualty isn’t worth the sacrifice for international affairs. Especially as we have invested into services dedicated to peaceful international diplomacy, such as the USFS (United States Foreign Service). This type of government department should guarantee military action is the last resort.
According to Pew Research Center, “About two-thirds (65%)”say that U.S. involvement in the global economy is a good thing.” Military action, according to CBS News, “enhances economic prosperity at home.” However, it devastates the economy of the country in which it is fought for many years.
In conclusion, I believe America should be diplomatically involved in international affairs. But, education matters; Pew Research Center concludes that “Nearly two-thirds of those with at least a four-year college degree (64%) say it’s best for the nation’s future to be active in world affairs. Only 40% of those who have not completed college say the same.” We need to learn about geography, culture, religion, and history to understand international affairs.
