I'll be semi-mute on the blog for a few days, as I'm in Charlottesville, VA to prep for a conference on America's standing in the world. Since my big blog boss will be at this event, I'll be devoting long hours in order to try and sound smart.
The question of standing is a tricky one for international relations -- much like debates about soft power. It's clear that Americans care about it -- but America's standing is not really independent from American policies. So, the question arises -- will Americans be willing to see policy changes that boost U.S. standing, even if they require significant costs for the United States (cough, global warming, cough)?
I have my doubts -- but I can be persuaded otherwise. So, question to readers -- do you care about America's standing? Has the election of Barack Obama enhanced America's standing? Should we care?
COMMENTS (9)
Read More
