US and the World

Where is Bush Leading Us?

The Boston Globe carried this piece by Gary Hart on Monday, June 2, 2003. I cite it because it is low-key and analytical, because Hart clearly describes the divide in foreign policy and when it occurred, because the debate that should accompany such a crossing has not occurred and because . . .

. . . when the Bush administration decided to go after terrorism everywhere it fundamentally defined a new role for America in the world.

He concludes:

America is a republic. Throughout history, republics have never been compatible with empire. Read the Romans, among others. When republics begin to seek hegemony and expand the reach and scope of their power, they no longer remain republics. America is still too young - and too noble - for that.