Foreign policy is an explicitly amoral enterprise.
Interpretation
Foreign policy often prioritizes national interests over moral considerations.
The quote by Samantha Power highlights that foreign policy decisions are typically guided by pragmatic and strategic considerations rather than ethical imperatives. It suggests that states act based on their interests, which can lead to actions that may not align with moral values, emphasizing the complexities and challenges in international relations.
In practice
Discussing the implications of foreign policy decisions at a political debate.
Sanctions did indeed help to bring Iran to the negotiating table. But sanctions did not stop the advance of Iran's nuclear program. Negotiations have done that, and it is in our interest not to deny ourselves the chance to achieve a long-term, comprehensive solution that would deny Iran a nuclear weapon.
Zimbabweans are severely malnourished, and deaths from starvation occur even in the cities. The country has not yet suffered nationwide famine only because international donors have stepped in.
Western governments have generally tried to contain genocide by appeasing its architects. But the sad record of the last century shows that the walls the United States tries to build around genocidal societies almost inevitably shatter.
No more than a surgeon can operate while tweeting can you reach your potential with one ear in, one ear out. You actually have to reacquaint yourself with concentration. We all do.
When dictators feel their support slipping among adults, it is not unusual for them to alter school textbooks in the hope of enlisting impressionable youths in their cause.
Throughout history, when societies face tough economic times, we have seen democratic reforms deferred, decreased trust in government, persecution of minority groups, and a general shrinking of the democratic space.
You cannot have a government for and by the people if it is not represented by all of the people.
To be an enemy of America can be dangerous, but to be a friend is fatal
Voting rights are preservative of all other rights.
If elected members of any body - whether it's a state house or Congress - were not willing to take career-ending or at least election-losing votes, I would not have the right to vote today.
Democracy is an imperfect way of steering between the violence of anarchy and the violence of tyranny, with the least violence you can get away with.
Politics: the art of appearing candid and completely open while concealing as much as possible.
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