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 (Weapons of Mass Destruction).

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.

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 * Discuss:**
 * 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?

Answer the following question using the [|discussion tab]  found on this page.
 * Reflection**

Subject: First Name, Last Initial - (Choose either the word ISOLATED or INVOLVED)


 * 1) Which U.S. foreign policy do you prefer? One that has the U.S. more involved in foreign affairs or one that has the U.S. more isolated?//**EXPLAIN WHY!** (Use evidence or examples to strengthen your opinion)//

//**Think about the following:**//
 * 9/11
 * Earthquake in Haiti
 * War in Iraq and Afghanistan
 * People movements in the Arab world (Tunsia, Egypt, Libya, etc.)