Bush+Doctrine+(2002)

Bush Doctrine September 17, 2002

The security environment confronting the United States today is radically different from what we have faced before. Yet the first duty of the United States Government remains what it always has been: to protect the American people and American interests. It is an enduring American principle that this duty obligates the government to anticipate and counter threats, using all elements of national power, before the threats can do grave damage. The greater the threat, the greater is the risk of inaction – and the more compelling the case for taking anticipatory action to defend ourselves, even if uncertainty remains as to the time and place of the enemy’s attack. There are few greater threats than a terrorist attack with WMD.

To forestall or prevent such hostile acts by our adversaries, the United States will, if necessary, __// act preemptively in exercising our inherent right of self-defense. //__ The United States will not resort to force in all cases to preempt emerging threats. Our preference is that nonmilitary actions succeed. And no country should ever use preemption as a pretext for aggression.

Source: http://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/nsc/nss/2006/print/sectionV.htm


 * 1) What stands out to you about this foreign policy doctrine?
 * 2) What would the Bush Doctrine look like on the Del Mar playground or at home with your family?
 * 3) What have been some of the historical consequences (outcomes) for this country as a result of this doctrine?
 * 4) Do you agree with or disagree with this foreign policy idea?