Impending Post-Conflict Period, Global Financial Crisis, and Faltering U.S. Hegemony: How Ought U.S. Diplomacy Adapt.

摘要

This paper asserts that an interrelationship exists between the United States' military power, economic strength, and international standing, and its development and use of diplomacy. This interrelationship developed during the late 19th century and continued without need for modification until about 2009. A new interplay will largely define the upcoming post-conflict period. The conduct of U.S. diplomacy must now adapt and do so amidst stringent fiscal circumstances and vacillating prestige. The first chapter lays the groundwork for understanding how the diplomatic instrument of national power is used. This prepares the reader for Chapters 2, 3 and 4, which present three historical eras that illustrate the interplay among military power, economic strength, international standing, and use of diplomacy over the last 120 years. Analyses of the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II show how diplomacy has grown to play an increasingly important role in representing U.S. interests and securing international influence. An overview of relevant organizational changes to the Department of State throughout these eras demonstrates how the interrelationship has affected both the use and structure of the profession of diplomacy. In Chapter 5, the interrelationship is observed through the lenses of economic interests and global leadership. A review of current circumstances highlights key differences with the past, demonstrating the need for a modified approach to the United States' conduct of international affairs. The conclusion offers recommendations intended to adjust the conduct of U.S. diplomacy to the challenges of the 21st century.