Friction in U.S. Foreign Policy: Cultural Difficulties with the World

摘要

The U.S. is so culturally different by virtue of its 'New World paradigm' that its direct leadership style is becoming counterproductive. If the United States were more street smart on the world scene it could better identify nuanced subtleties and better leverage allies who in turn are better positioned to further American ideals abroad. However such an indirect approach to world affairs is counter-intuitive to most Americans who are better known for their directness and cultural ineptitude. The U.S. approach to culture has been traditionally to blur the differences and seek commonality which has been at the core of American domestic success in assimilating immigrants. The American challenge is to differentiate better between domestic and foreign policy formulas for success which need to be different if America wishes to succeed in both areas. Americans must learn to work in more indirect ways with like-minded allies to create a world favorable to U.S. interests. This paper examines the ideological threats confronting the U.S. and America's lack of cultural savvy along with its implications proposing a new outlook for policy leaders and strategists.