Chomsky (2011) Flashcards
What does Chomsky feel about the US motives in international relations ?
The U.S. has overarching motives that inform its policy choices globally, with a focus on maintaining military and economic supremacy.
What dictates US policy in the Middle East ?
The primary concern for the U.S. in this region is control over energy reserves, particularly oil.
What were the US aims in Libya ?
In Libya, U.S. policy aims include potentially gaining access to untapped oil reserves and replacing the current regime with a more dependable client.
How does the text evaluate claims of humanitarianism from the US ?
Skepticism is advised when political leaders and commentators justify military actions with humanitarian motives. A test is suggested: whether they call for intervention to defend victims of their own crimes or those of their allies.
What is the relevant historical context to this skepticism ?
The U.S. aimed for post-World War II dominance, with plans for a Grand Area of influence, emphasizing “military and economic supremacy.”
What is the significance of oil in American foreign policy ?
Control over oil is a significant factor in U.S. Middle East policy, influencing how they engage with oil-rich countries and dictators.
What are the different approaches based on hydrocarbon reserves ?
In oil-rich countries, the U.S. may support reliable dictators, while in countries lacking major oil reserves, they might support favoured dictators until their rule becomes untenable.
What is Libya’s significance for the US ?
Libya’s rich oil reserves make it a strategic interest for the U.S. They seek a government that is more obedient and reliable.
What does the text discuss concerning UN intervention and self-determination ?
An anti-interventionist who believes in self-determination may legitimately support a UN intervention if it meets a high burden of proof and is in line with international law.
How does the text compare Libya and Kosovo ?
There is a comparison between the interventions in Kosovo (1999) and Libya, but the author argues that the justifications for intervention in both cases are heavily influenced by Western propaganda.
