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Obama doctrine rehabilitates empire
The new US National Security Strategy (NSS) makes for a boring but important weekend read. I recommend reading it in full.
It is full of generic language, bombastic claims and at times wishful thinking - but, if you look hard enough, there is a sprinkle of silver lining.
The structure is all too familiar: The world improves in the shadow of US leadership, but multiple dangers and threats lie ahead in hostile and challenging environments that require even more US engagement in the world.
A reflection of Obama's speeches and policies, it mirrors the same combination of a pragmatic, cool and collected approach to US security with an infusion of optimism and pride.
Since the NSS is required by law, every president is obliged to present his administration's vision and roadmap for safeguarding US national security and interests.
A quick review of the National Security Strategy of his predecessors Clinton and Bush, for example, underlines the similarities in structuring and phrasing such documents. But it also highlights the emphasis and priorities of each president depending on his worldview and US domestic and international standing.