There have been multiple paradigms of power in IR, including ‘hard’, ‘soft’ and ‘smart’ power. The missing element has been that of justice – but the new paradigm of ‘just power’ may be the answer.
The Arab World is faced with tremendous odds in its journey towards democracy, internally and externally, and the price has been heavy. These challenges are undermining the future stability of the region.
Professor Walt discusses the Syria crisis, the value of “isms” in IR theory, and advises students to be good writers and work on subjects that genuinely fascinate them.
Does reputation matter, and is it worth a military strike? The call for prudence may be the best formula for managing American policy in Syria, avoiding the negative reactions that challenge America’s long-term power and broader goals.
Academics are constantly being asked to play white coated experts in the media, dispensing pearls of 20 second segmented wisdom about a particular issue. Whether or not what they say is intelligent is another matter.
The disaster in Syria epitomizes the destructive effects of the sectarianization of regional geopolitical battles and the use of the popular Arab uprisings for otherwise geopolitical ends.
With diplomatic relations improving between the US and Russia, it is time to consider diplomacy-driven measures to achieve a UN Security Council Resolution that establishes a durable Syrian peace process.
Finding a conclusion to the civil war and the ‘War on Terror’ is reliant upon fulfilling the will of the Syrian people without letting them fracture to the point of continuing civil unrest.
The Obama administration has to contextualize its potential strike in Syria by formulating its military objectives within a political framework that aims to stop the vicious mayhem engulfing Syria.
Bashar al-Assad may play his cards well and stay in power in Syria, however, the future of the Middle East – as well as the future of the Syrian campaign – is likely to be decided by Washington.
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