Editorial: The Mullen Doctrine

摘要

Akey issue for the US concerns when, how, and for what America will fight. In October 1984, Secretary of State George P. Shultz famously warned about becoming "the Hamlet of nations," frozen by uncertainty. He wanted President Reagan to pull the trigger more often, even in murky situations.rnThis greatly bothered Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger, who proposed six tests for use of force. Is a vital national interest at stake? Will we commit resources to win? Will we sustain that commitment? Is the objective clear? Can we expect public support? Is force a last resort? The "Weinberger Doctrine" set a high bar for a few years.