First published 2008
America faces three interconnected crises that threaten its future. The economy lies in shambles, no longer salvageable through overseas expansion. The presidency has accumulated imperial powers that hollow out democratic governance. Military adventures have become endless, fueled by a dangerous obsession with armed force that damages the republic itself. Conservative historian and veteran Andrew Bacevich argues these problems cross party lines and demand urgent attention. He traces how illusions have shaped American policy since World War II ended. Bacevich calls for reviving American realism, a tradition that understands power has boundaries, recognizes that actions produce unexpected results, rejects claims of national superiority, doubts simple answers that rely on violence, and insists budgets must balance. This approach offers Republicans and Democrats shared principles for addressing the nation's most pressing challenges before they cause permanent harm.
Genres: history, political-science, politics, non-fiction, current-affairs, american-history
Vibes: thought-provoking
Tropes: critical-analysis, social-commentary
Setting: America, United States
Period: 20th-century, 21st-century
224 pages · Hardcover · Metropolitan Books