Crusading Realism: The Bush Doctrine and American Core Values After 9/11

by Lamont Colucci

Overview

Crusading Realism discusses the presidential dominance of American foreign policy and the religiosity and leadership style of President George W. Bush. Contrasting the post-9/11 Bush administration with its earlier incarnation and with that of its immediate predecessor, the development of a distinctive policy position founded on pre-emption, prevention, primacy, and the promotion of democracy is examined. The emergence of the Bush Doctrine from 2001-2003 is analyzed in relation to four distinct phases: its genesis, initial development, further evolution, and maturation. The Bush Doctrine in this period culminates in the decision to invade Iraq in the light of the heightened sense of threat occasioned by a 'toxic nexus' of trans-national terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, and rogue states. The standard accounts of neo-conservative coup are re-assessed and dismissed. Attempts to characterize the Bush Doctrine in terms of Realism, Idealism or other theories of international relations are considered, and the concept of Crusading Realism returns America to its political roots in the idea of natural law, the American Revolution, and the foundation of the Republic.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780761841302
Publisher:	University Press of America
Publication date:	06/27/2008
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	266
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Lamont Colucci is professor of international relations and national security at Ripon College.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Preface
Chapter 2 1: Introduction
Chapter 3 2: Continuity and Change in Presidential Doctrine
Chapter 4 3: National Security and Terrorism Before Bush: The Clinton Years
Chapter 5 4: A Crisis Foreshadowed
Chapter 6 5: The Genesis and Rise of 'Crusading Realism'
Chapter 7 6: After 9/11: Initial Development of the Bush Doctrine
Chapter 8 7: The Bush Doctrine Evolves: the Second Phase
Chapter 9 8: The Road to Baghdad
Chapter 10 9: Understanding 'Crusading Realism'

Editorial Reviews

This is a well-written and thoroughly researched book....Those who really want to study the roots of American foreign policy and learn about the dynamic tensions between the realists and idealists who formed it, will find it a worthy investment of their time.

The Washington Times

A deft and scholarly explanation of international affairs in a post 9/11 world.

Midwest Book Review

This is a well-written and thoroughly researched book....Those who really want to study the roots of American foreign policy and learn about the dynamic tensions between the realists and idealists who formed it, will find it a worthy investment of their time.

November 2008 The Washington Times

A deft and scholarly explanation of international affairs in a post 9/11 world.

October 2008 Midwest Book Review

A deft and scholarly explanation of international affairs in a post 9/11 world.

October 2008 The Midwest Book Review