We're all too happy to see a change over in Washington, particularly in the White House. One must realize that sometimes our jubilation is short lived and we realize that our choice has become a mistake.
If history is any guide, it serves to show that there has never been a President, at least in the past 50 years, who really changed the Political map in America. The formula which allows them to become elected is followed by both major parties - this formula pigeonholes their ability to make policy decisions that brings about real change. Particularly in first term Presidents, the idea is to tiptoe through various issues of the day and postpone them until after the second term in order to safeguard their stay in power.
And then there are those Presidents who have laid out their platform and followed a course that's entirely different. Do not forget that in 2000, George Bush's foreign policy was one of humility and peace:
All these promises were for naught, and his principles went out of the window come September 11th. As if it was all perfectly choreographed, plans to invade the world were suddenly brought to the forefront and ramrodded through a Congress and a people who were obedient and acquiescent under the circumstances.
The same may very well apply with Obama. He may not want to leave Iraq as soon as he promised. He may entangle us in Afghanistan indefinitely as he suggested. He's certainly going to spend our tax dollars freehandedly. Therefore, to me, I may end up with the worst case scenario - a quagmired foreign policy that does not result in world peace and an out of control government which is trying to spend its way out of an economic problem. He's already disappointed many with his selections - people from the past who will likely commit to the same old ways things are done. Nevertheless, perhaps indeed we will see something different from him. Perhaps he will balance our Foreign Policy. Perhaps he will see the dangers of the skyrocketing National debt.
Come Tuesday, it's nice to see that things are changing. But I certainly hope it is for the better.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
International Affairs & Extle.com
At Extle.com, we have primarily focused on economic issues as it relates to libertarian principles. However, recent events have underscored the importance of also discussing foreign affairs and the stand Libertarians take as it relates to such events.
As Libertarians, which represent the core essence of the founding principles of the country, we approach such issues with trepidation. In any event, the loss of human life concerns us the most, regardless of political persuasion, race or religion. We are blind to "who is right" and "who is wrong" in any given situation. What matters to us is human suffering. As such, the role of the United States is to remain neutral and suggest that cooler heads prevail in areas of conflict. It is to encourage the cessation of hostilities and not takes sides and assign blame in the public sphere.
The United State's foreign policy has entangled itself in numerous foreign conflicts and has drawn and generated increased hatred against our country. Such policies have contributed to a more insecure homeland.
With particular reference to the situation of Gaza. The United States, via the Presidency, has taken a side in the conflict and has tacitly encouraged the continued bombardment of a captive population. Such encouragement has led to the deaths of over 800 civilians. The munitions being used in the territory is also troubling. The folks at Extle.com are opposed to the use of White Phosphorus munitions, particularly in its current application in close proximity to civilian installations. The burns produced by such munitions can be widespread, extremely horrific and painful.
The United States should heed the call of our founding fathers and avoid "entangling alliances" which compromises our own security. The United States should affirm itself as a balanced superpower that can function as a mediator to the benefit of all within the region. The new administration has the ability of setting a new example in foreign affairs, and fundamentally change the course and our moral standing.
As Libertarians, which represent the core essence of the founding principles of the country, we approach such issues with trepidation. In any event, the loss of human life concerns us the most, regardless of political persuasion, race or religion. We are blind to "who is right" and "who is wrong" in any given situation. What matters to us is human suffering. As such, the role of the United States is to remain neutral and suggest that cooler heads prevail in areas of conflict. It is to encourage the cessation of hostilities and not takes sides and assign blame in the public sphere.
The United State's foreign policy has entangled itself in numerous foreign conflicts and has drawn and generated increased hatred against our country. Such policies have contributed to a more insecure homeland.
With particular reference to the situation of Gaza. The United States, via the Presidency, has taken a side in the conflict and has tacitly encouraged the continued bombardment of a captive population. Such encouragement has led to the deaths of over 800 civilians. The munitions being used in the territory is also troubling. The folks at Extle.com are opposed to the use of White Phosphorus munitions, particularly in its current application in close proximity to civilian installations. The burns produced by such munitions can be widespread, extremely horrific and painful.
The United States should heed the call of our founding fathers and avoid "entangling alliances" which compromises our own security. The United States should affirm itself as a balanced superpower that can function as a mediator to the benefit of all within the region. The new administration has the ability of setting a new example in foreign affairs, and fundamentally change the course and our moral standing.
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