How does foreign policy differ?
Sources:
Dwarkesh Patel has discussed various aspects of foreign policy, highlighting the differences in approaches of different countries and systems:
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Coherence in Foreign Policy:
- Richard Hanania explains that China's foreign policy can be seen as more coherent compared to the U.S. due to its centralized system. While China focuses on specific regional issues, the U.S. has been involved in multiple blunders such as Iraq and Afghanistan. Hanania suggests that the non-democratic nature of China's government allows it to maintain a more coherent and focused foreign policy compared to the U.S., which is influenced by varied interests and democratic processes 1.
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Continental vs. Maritime Powers:
- Sarah C. M. Paine highlights the difference between continental and maritime powers. Continental powers like Russia see security in territorial control, whereas maritime powers like the UK and the US see security in controlling commerce and naval strength. This fundamental difference influences their foreign policy strategies with continental powers often engaging in negative-sum actions (e.g., Russia's actions in Ukraine) compared to the more collaborative and trade-oriented strategies of maritime powers 2.
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Foreign Policy Dynamics:
- Richard Hanania also explores the influence of special interests and public opinion on foreign vs. domestic policy. For foreign policy, leaders have more freedom due to public opinion being more easily manipulated as most people lack direct experience with foreign countries. In contrast, domestic policies affecting daily life, like Social Security, require broader public support. This gives leaders more leeway in foreign policy decisions, often guided by special interests rather than public ideology 3.
These insights illustrate how various geopolitical and structural factors shape the unique approaches different countries take in their foreign policies.
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