Analysis & Opinions - Project Syndicate

What Is a Moral Foreign Policy?

| Mar. 04, 2020

Many Americans say they want a moral foreign policy, but disagree on what that means. Using a three-dimensional scorecard encourages us to avoid simplistic answers and to look at the motives, means, and consequences of a US president's actions.

Consider, for example, the presidencies of Ronald Reagan and the two George Bushes. When people call for a "Reaganite foreign policy," they mean to highlight the clarity of his rhetoric in the presentation of values. Clearly stated objectives helped educate and motivate the public at home and abroad.

But that was only one aspect of Reagan's foreign policy....

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For more information on this publication: Belfer Communications Office
For Academic Citation:

Nye, Joseph S Jr."What Is a Moral Foreign Policy?" Project Syndicate, March 4, 2020.

The Author

Joseph S. Nye, Jr.

Joseph S. Nye

  • Harvard University Distinguished Service Professor
  • Member of the Board, Belfer Center
  • Faculty Affiliate, Future of Diplomacy Project
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