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The End of the Lone Superpower

Recent American policy, both foreign and internal, raises questions about the intent of what we are doing in the world.  Many argue that we immorally impose our beliefs around the world for selfish gain.  After thoughtful consideration I have reached an interesting conclusion.

No one would argue that after the collapse of the Soviet Union the U.S. bacame the world’s lone superpower.  This created a sense of power and entitlement.  We were capable of doing whatever we wanted because no one was capable of standing up to us.  Most people believe that they know what is the best thing to do in a certain situation.  This is also true for countries.  America decided to police the world unchecked by “irrelevant’ organizations like the UN.  we believed that what we wanted for the rest of the world was best for everyone.  I do not intend to imply self-interest in foreign policy- merely a belief in teh superiority of one’s own ideas.  The conept of American ideals being best for the rest of the world has run rampant since the end of the Cold War.

However, times change and the world evolves– while we refuse to.  we believe our views on Iraq, Israel, capitalism, and democracy are correct and will do whatever it takes to defend them.  The problem is the rest of the world is starting to want to be equals.  As western cultures, China, Japan, Iran, and Venezeula refuse to bend to American beliefs we are seeing a struggle occur.  The rest of the world has evolved to the point of considering themselves equal to America.  They want a platform that allows their beliefs and views to be considered along with American beliefs. 

Like anyone in power, America does not want to relinquish this moral superiority.  As we tighten our death grip on the supremacy of our views we are austracizing ourselves from the international community.  we need to be a leader that treats others as equals not as little children who must be put up with.  It is time to willingly leader a group of peer countries instead of struggling to maintain our control of everything.  It is time for change.

Hyrum Salmond