The limits of power : the end of American Exceptionalism / Andrew J. Bacevich.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Bacevich, Andrew J.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

United States--Politics and government--1993-2001.

United States.

Politics and government.

United States--Politics and government--2001-2009.

Power (Social sciences)--United States.

Power (Social sciences).

Physical Description:

206 pages ; 22 cm

Edition:

First edition.

Place of Publication:

New York : Metropolitan Books, 2008.

Summary:

The Limits of Power identifies a profound triple crisis facing America: the economy, in remarkable disarray, can no longer be fixed by relying on expansion abroad; the government, transformed by an imperial presidency, is a democracy in form only; U.S. involvement in endless wars, driven by a deep infatuation with military power, has been a catastrophe for the body politic. These pressing problems threaten all of us, Republicans and Democrats. If the nation is to solve its predicament, it will need the revival of a distinctly American approach: the neglected tradition of realism. Andrew J. Bacevich, uniquely respected across the political spectrum, offers a historical perspective on the illusions that have governed American policy since 1945. The realism he proposes includes respect for power and its limits; sensitivity to unintended consequences; aversion to claims of exceptionalism; skepticism of easy solutions, especially those involving force; and a conviction that the books will have to balance. Only a return to such principles, Bacevich argues, can provide common ground for fixing America's urgent problems before the damage becomes irreparable.--From publisher description.

Contents:

Introduction : war without exits

The crisis of profligacy

The political crisis

The military crisis

Conclusion : the limits of power.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages [183]-194) and index.

ISBN:

9780805088151

0805088156

OCLC:

212893523

Online:

Contributor biographical information

Publisher description