The Final Post: "I Think I'm Going To Cry"

Saturday, November 22, 2008

The author of this article is basically saying that the United States is going to lose relative influence in three different ways: Economically, Politically, and Militarily

It is also saying that the loss of this relative power may have the effect of causing more conflict among the nations of the world. Right now the United States is the dominant economic power. We have the richest economy in the world and our domestic actions have the power to indirectly influence other nations. The article argues that emerging economies like Brazil, South Africa, India, and China will in the future soon converge upon the United States, putting economic power and influence in more than a few hands. It also implies that while we have these growing economies that are in need of resources, this may fuel resource conflict. The article implies that since the United States is so powerful in the ways stated above as of now it has no problem securing its needed resources. However emerging economies also bring in better military might. The article states that through scientific and technological advances and the proliferation of weapons the emerging economies will gain more military muscle. As stated this “increasingly will constrict US freedom of action.” This means that the United States will have to account more for its actions because there are going to be nations with relatively stronger muscle than before, and more power to respond directly and indirectly to the actions of the United States. Hence in the future the United States will not have the political power that it once had. The United States is less likely to go against the calls of other nations to not invade an entire country and take control of its government. I guess since the U.S. sees itself with so much power it feels it has enough room to flex its muscles on the world stage, and others may be less hesitant to step up to them.

I can agree with most of the article, but it is pretty pessimistic to me. It states that what can emerge in the future is that countries may likely start warring over resources. It can happen but I think it is unlikely. Yes the United States is going to lose some of its relative dominance, but it is still going to be the top dog. I do not see this as a sign of alarm as an American citizen.