The Blindness of Moral Clarity Posted by David Shorr



Please join me in a thought experiment. I'm going to pinpoint what I consider the central falacy of the ultra-conservative foreign policy argument / critique. See if you agree that this theme -- blind spot, I'd say -- runs through a big proportion of what the hard-right says about the stance the United States should take internationally.

As David Kurtz of Talking Points Memo and Greg Scoblete over at RealClearWorld Compass blog have both noted, the Obama-botched-Egypt meme rests on an inflated notion of US leverage. An impulse that always assumes an American president can make world events come out the way he wants. Actually David's post flags a comment President Obama made in his news conference, pushing back against that idea of American omnipotence.

My hypothesis about administration critics adds one key element: moral clarity (aka 'resolve' or 'certitude'). Sound familiar? The critics love to talk about the president's supposed lack of principles, but let's talk about what self-absorbed self-righteousness gets you in the real world -- i.e. what can really be accomplished through moral clarity. In other words, I don't think the partisan foreign policy divide is about America's international objectives or our moral values; sensible Democrats and Republics largely agree about those. I think it's really a debate about persuasion and pressure versus bluff and bluster.

Here's a useful definition of strategic thinking from an excellent new book, The End of Arrogance by Bruce Jentleson and Steven Weber:

In a complex and rapidly changing environment it does not work well to repeatedly reinforce who we are and what we stand for. We know those things, and we know how they shape what we do, how we act, how we respond. Strategy is ultimately about how we influence what others do.

This is the burden of proof I'd put on the proponents of moral clarity. How will the defense of virtue get others to do what we want, and what's your basis for believing this cause-and-effect relationship? Can loud moral forthrightness ever backfire? Does it ever have unintended consequences?

Don't get me wrong; I don't deny the role of moral principles in international affairs. I'm a big believer in the importance of staking the moral high ground in diplomacy -- it's something on which I've based many of my own policy arguments. But I feel just as strongly that the claim of moral authority must be based on more than an assertion of principle or a belief in the nation's exceptionalism (which I actually share, to an extent). It matters crucially how others respond. As Weber and Jentleson remind us, the question of influence and legerage isn't a question of being true to ourselves but convincing to others. A leader without followers is just someone out for a stroll.

That's what I think the foreign policy debate is really about. Now coming back to that thought experiment, as you've observed national debates about foreign policy, how strong of an undercurrent is this?

Comments

[Lose stomach fat]

Well said! I love the quote "A leader without followers is just someone out for a stroll"

[hilzoy]

One of the many things that annoys me about the "moral clarity" people is the idea that wandering around lecturing people about morality without taking the trouble either to understand them or to act on your own principles somehow constitutes acting morally. Speaking as a professional: it doesn't.

[David Shorr]

I think our real foreign policy pathology is self-absorption. We just need to be more self-aware and, more important, do better at cuing into the perspectives of others. It's not that complicated, just a matter of rolling up our sleeves and getting down to dilligent diplomatic work. And oh by the way, if that sounds like an argument against gutting the State Department budget, it is.

[Pet Meds]

we know how they shape what we do, how we act, how we respond. Strategy is ultimately about how we influence what others do. These all are great to know about it.

[World Cup Rugby Shirts]

It's hard not to agree with your sensible thoughts. Indeed sometimes we have political leaders who seemed to ignore the fact that they're not being followed by anyone anymore.

[Electronics]

You had some nice points here.

[flash drive]

Thanks bud. Great blog you got going on here.

[new era hats]

Mr Cohen, I think you are not fully aware of ground realities in Pakistan and that is the reasons that many highly educated persons in US jump into wrong conclusions. Of course this leads to policy which puts Pakistan on the other side though it does not need to be. To understand the ground realities, persons like you should come here a live for a while, preferably with some Pakistani friends. The way 'Time Square' bombing was done, itself indicates that there are no sophisticated terror trainings going on. Majority of Pakistanis are very moderate and have no hatred for any US or EU persons. You just have to understand these people. British did it very well and you might like to read how they did it.

[Fox Hats]

A fine addition. And I suspect you’re right about young people not reading this article. Not only does it lack those damned emoticons and pithy abbreviations, it’s chock full of really annoying punctuation. Young people hate that.

[Merchant Cash Advance]

No matter who "wins" in Egypt, Obama is the ultimate "loser".

[冷夜]

ed, the Obama-botched-Egypt meme rests on an inflated notion of US leverage. An impulse that al

[bedava porno]

I think our real foreign policy pathology is self-absorption.

[seks izle]

You had some nice points here.

[diş beyazlatma kalemi]

All properties of the formulation applied by dentists with whitening quality, strong, safe and very appropriate addition to the price, you will not missing handbag is a unique product design, fashion styling ..

[ugg outlet]

Hello, good luck for me I was looking for this information for several months ago. Finally I got it all here. Thanks a lot!

[NFL Jerseys Wholesale]

You had some nice points here.

[ed hardy dresses]

The arrest appreciation with his paintings occasioned his appointment like a member from the San Francisco Cultural Arts Commission and as well caused him to become recipient of your honorary doctorate degree from the San Francisco Paintings Institute.

[Alexander Wang Platform]

There are a number of very nice points made here. Generally, I’m not really keen on information sites. then again, once in a while all of us should take notice. Inspiring, I am thankful to you.

[Cheap Replica Watches]

When I click your RSS feed it gives me a bunch of garbage, is the malfunction on my side?

[goodwatches]

it is good
watch5
whowatch
watchse
uwatch
Uwatch
iwatch
needwatch
watcheslife
livewatch

[Cosplay Wigs]

Thank you for taking the time to publish this information very useful!I'm still waiting for some interesting thoughts from your side in your next post thanks.

[Christian Louboutin Mary Janes]

It's always nice when you can not only be informed, but also entertained! I'm sure you had fun writing this article.

[knockoff handbags]

i can get some info form your article,,thanks.

[canada goose expedition jacket]

Thanks , I have just been looking for information about this topic for ages and yours is the best I’ve discovered till now.

[havyar jeli]

Total 200ml of the effects of individual constituents in selulex If we talk about;

[Joe Flacco Jerseys]

These all things are very informative and knowledgeable and i can get so many ideas form it.I like your sharing too much.You have done such a nice job.

[Air Max Shoes]

Such a good writing, or by I saw for the first time. I'm quite happy, you are a good writer

[oakley sunglasses]

The carefully crafted image that you want to use this formula to do with the short term is now not far from reach.

[replica handbags]

It's very Interesting Information. Thanks.

[Thomas Sabo Shop Online]

could you show us how you make your hair like this? its lovely

[airjordanseller]

One of the basic Michael jordan shoes for sale details that you need to know Michael Jordan shoes is that you will find that with Air Jordan shoes , ALL of them are manufactured outside of the

United States. There is NO genuine manufacturing plant within the United States and any store that says they are selling genuine USA made air Jordan shoes are in fact selling you a knock off and

if you purchase from a business cheap Jordan shoes that says this they will in fact scamming YOU.

[burberry outlet]

What a fun pattern! It's great to hear from you and see what you've sent up to. All of the projects look great! You make it so simple to this.Thanks!

[louboutin heels]

What a great and amazing thing what you had shared with us thanks for such a nice sharing.

[Thomas Sabo Ohrring]

This blog is very cool! How was it made ?

[Bead Pandora]

I hope you continue to update, I will continue to pay attention to it!

[Cheap Bikinis]

Such a good writing, or by I saw for the first time. I'm quite happy, you are a good writer.

[Mont Blanc Pen]

What is friendship?Mont Blanc PenWhy do we call a person our friend? When do we call someone a very good friend?

[Mont Blanc Pen]

What is friendship?Mont Blanc PenWhy do we call a person our friend? When do we call someone a very good friend?

[Thomas And Sabo]

Peace and development are the two themes of the today's world. National security is the premise and foundation of nation development. The Middle East is the most turbulent region today's world. I hope Middle East will be more peaceful.

[replica panerai]

Thank your for sharing your wonderful article. I very agree with your views from here.

[replica handbags]

thanks for sharing your article, i am like that.

[Ed Hardy T Shirts]

Weep no more , no sigh , nor groan. Sorrow calls no time that's gone .
n

[Discount Christian Louboutin]

Natural abilities are like natural plants that need pruning by study.
d

[chaussures puma]

We always have time enough , if we will but use it aright.

[Nike Free Running]

Thank you so much ,i am feeling so nice after reading your article!

[drebeats]

Thank you so much ,i am feeling so nice after reading your article!

[Buy Sandals]

It is no use to blame the looking glass if your face is awry.

[Vibram 5 Fingers]

The history of the world is but the biography of great men.

[Ken Griffey Shoes]

This is a great inspiring article.I am pretty much pleased with your good work.You put really very helpful information. Keep it up. Keep blogging. Looking to reading your next post.

[Air Max]

No one can call back yesterday.

[Griffey Shoes]

I don't know how to receive my responce. Waiting for your reply, tks!

[Cheap Sandals]

In wine there is truth.
t

[Air Max 95]

It is easy to be wise after the event.
i

[football shirts]

football shirt
Juli still didn't show at the bus stop, and by the end of the week I learned from Garrett that
she was riding a bike.

[Griffey Shoes]

I have never read such a wonderful article and I am coming back tomorrow to continue reading.

[fitness equipment]

Good topic man. I will be coming to this web site on regular basis.

[Brand Bikinis]

Time and tide wait for no man.
x

[Sunglasses Discount]

Time is money.
s

[beats dre studio]

Looks great feeling.

[Onitsuka Tiger]

It is quite important for all of us Americans to think about our budget and spend as negligence of

these things have caused worst times for us in recession.

[Cheap Jordan Shoes]

Who keeps company with the wolves, will learn to howl.

[Adidas Shoes]

You can't have it both ways.
6i

[thoma sabo charms]

Your blog has truly inspired me, especially the current article. thank you for sharing your thoughts and the impact of them has been tremendous to me.Thank you more time and keep up with the good work.

[Nike Free]

Le sac longchamp soldes série avec le logo est une percée dans le passé à la conception classique, a maintenant atteint un succès mondial. Pour beaucoup d'hommes, dames, il est devenu une nécessité de vie. Nouveau sac Long champ de couleurs de bonbons énumérés, aujourd'hui simple en vogue , comment pouvons-nous pas avoir un sacs longchamps aussi!

[england football shirts]

“It was good,” she said. “I have no idea why Joseph likes living there so much.

It’s so busy and noisy all the time. I couldn’t do it.”

[Adidas Shoes]

What we do willingly is easy.
wq

[Air Jordan Heels]

Whatever you do, do with all your might.
lou

[cheap jordans]

Action is the foundational key to all success,chong

[Adidas Shoes]

Wonders will never cease.

[Air Jordan Heels]

The only way to differentiate yourself from the competition is through service.
ju

[Nike Air Max]

A fine addition. And I suspect you’re right about young people not reading this article. Not only does it lack those damned emoticons and pithy abbreviations, it’s chock full of really annoying punctuation. Young people hate that.

[Adidas Shoes]

It has come to our knowledge that you have been cheating the company.
r

[Jeremy Scott Adidas Shoes]

To the world you may be one person,but to one person you may be the world.
n

[cheap moncler]

It enables you to hear God speaking to your heart reminding you of His perfect love for you. HH

[Air Max Shoes]

Hello, good luck for me I was looking for this information for several months ago. Finally I got it all here. Thanks a lot!

[nike high heels]

Hello I just wanted to leave a comment to say that I enjoy your blog. Looking at the number of comments, I see others feel the same way! Keep up the good work Silver Price Per Gram CQM

[Air Jordan 5]

It is quite important for all of us Americans to think about our budget and spend as negligence of

these things have caused worst times for us in recession.

[chaussures femmes]

We have gotten many great comments from our customers and earn a good reputation in foreign makerts, more than 90% customers are satisfied with our products and service, till now our online members are beyond 80,000. As of right now, we Replica Handbags currently serve customers from over 18 countries, and we are still growing. We really hope to expand our business through cooperation with individuals and companies from around the world.

[Air Max Shoes]

It's quite interesting.I will look around for

[Cheap Logo Design]

The collection is very good & amazing. Nice one to hold upon this. All the stuffs gives a meaning to the collection & symbolizes a lot. So overall good one.

[Vibram Five Fingers]

Early to bed and earlier to raise , tends to create a dude wholesome , wealthy and sensible .(Benjamin Franklin , American president )

[Asics Tiger]

The fox could possibly develop grey, but by no suggests good.

[Air Max Nike]

You know what charm is : A way of getting the answer "yes" without having asked any clear question. (A. Camus)

[Air Yeezy]

Don't gild the lily.

[cheap pandora jewellery]

I really enjoy your articles. Very well written. I look forward to reading more. Thanks for share with us. Take care!

[Discount UGG Boots sale]

The article in your blog reminds me some old memory .That is good .It gives me happy .I think we will have a harmonious talk.Do you agree?

[Cheap Jordan]

Picture a planet devoid of cardstock earnings or credit rating cards. You've obtained your smartphone within your pocket, and that's it. Need to spend for something?

Walk up to the register, possess the clerk confirm you out, after which tap your cell to the entrance using the register. The register picks up some details in your phone, and you're instantly compensated for. No sliding card, no pulling out cash; just tapping your cell to the register.

All with this could be designed feasible many thanks to engineering acknowledged as near to area discussion (NFC) and yahoo and google Wallet. Today, yahoo and google Wallet grew to be obtainable to the public, and if you're all through the appropriate place, you can use it to spend for the stuff.

[Cheap Jordan]

I want to bring out the secrets of nature and apply them for the happiness of man. I don't know of any better service to offer for the short time we are in the world.
gh

[Adidas Shoes]

The worst way to miss someone is to be sitting right beside them knowing you can't have them.
8

[Nike Dunk High Heel]

chaussures nike
chaussures nike pas cher
nike pas cher
chaussures nike air max
chaussures air max
air max femme
chaussures nike homme
Nike Free Run
Nike Free Run 2
Nike Free Run 3
Nike Free 3.0
Nike Free 3.0 V3
Nike Free 5.0 V4
Nike Free 5.0 V5
Nike Free 7.0
Nike Air Max 87
Nike Air Max 90
Nike Air Max 91
Nike Air Max 95
Nike Air Max 24-7
Nike Air Max 2009
Nike Air Max 2010
Nike Air Max 2011
Nike Air Max 2012
Nike Air Max TN
Nike air max BW
Nike Air Max LTD
Air Max Skyline
Air Max Lebron
Air Max Tailwind
Nike Air Max Press
Nike Dunk SB
Nike Air Max Preview
Talons Nike Dunk
Talons Jordan
Nike Dunk High Heel
Air Jordan High Heel

[Red Bottom Heels]

Morality may consist solely in the courage of making a choice. （Leon Nlum, French statesman）

[tods shoes]

It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it, but it's also true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives.

[Cheap New Era Caps]

No one can succeed without any hard work. Karl Max was successful, because he spent more than 30 years writing the book "Communist Manifesto"; Tomas Edison succeeded, because he had experimented thousands of times to find the best material for lights. Every success calls for hard work. If you want to suc-ceed, work hard first.zhongchengmaoyi110post

[Moncler jackets]

Moncler Moncler Outlet
Moncler jackets
Winter coats
Moncler coats
Moncler Jackets For Men
Moncler Jackets For Women is down king, to date, the industry in the down jacket, Moncler is no longer compete with its objects. Repeatedly in the winter, give yourself put on a Moncler, is happy.

[Christian Louboutin]

Some people pretend to despise the things they cannot have. (Aesop, ancient Greek fable writer)

[belstaff clothing]

I want the future to be better than the past. I don't want it contaminated by the mistakes and errors with which history is filled. http://www.cheapuggboots2.org/.Find true love and be a true lover as well.May you find a love which is not only strong as death, but to leave to a truly for feeling life.http://www.belstaffjacketzone.com

[Wholesale jerseys cheap]

I like this so much.Thanks for posting

[teddy]

Ultra-conservative foreign policy is the worst thing ever!! Hope it will never come true...

Teddy from Victoria Secret coupons company

[バーバリーハンドバッグ]

バーバリーマフラーアジア人に愛され。バーバリーハンドバッグ自然の魅力の成熟と合理的な分布。バーバリー アウトレット特に日本の生産の現地設計による協力のフランチャイズモードで。バーバリーマフラー今日の時代の完璧な組み合わせとその古典的な感性。バーバリー財布印象は軽くてシンプルです。バーバリーアウトレット無数の人々の心をつかむ、永遠のブランドになる！

[エルメス 財布]

エルメス綿100％非常に微細な質感、快適性、および洗浄でフェードしない、無変形、光沢を維持するというように。エルメスバッグとハンカチ、スカーフ、スカーフ、ヘアアクセサリー、スカーフ、等と
して使用することができます。エルメス財布通気性、風と雨の種類は、容易に引き裂かれることができない。エルメスバーキンしわ防水、通気性の生地の摩耗。エルメススカーフは無数の人々の心をつかむ
ためにエレガントなデザイン、の英国の伝統は、永遠のブランドになることを強調。エルメスバーキン中東、インドとブラジルに続いて、中国は最終的に、英国ブランドの市場の主要制御の一つとなって。