Discusison: The Carter Doctrine
In your Discussion, you examined the idea of grand strategy by exploring different conceptions of war. It is important to understand, though, that grand strategy does not strictly relate to the waging of war, though this is an important part of the idea. Rather, grand strategy refers, rather holistically, to overarching strategies adopted by nations in order to survive or thrive in the world.
One grand strategy utilized by the United States is referred to as the Carter Doctrine. The brief article by Andrew J. Bacevich, The Carter Doctrine at 30, provides an overview of the Carter Doctrine.
In this simulation, you will take the role of special advisor to the President, who has asked you to provide a written evaluation of whether or not the Carter Doctrine ought to be continued as an important component of America's grand strategy.
To do so, then, complete the following steps:
1. First, read the following article describing the Carter Doctrine: The Carter Doctrine at 30.
2. In one page, evaluate the Carter Doctrine from a strategic perspective. Explain to the President whether the Carter Doctrine has ultimately been positive or negative for the United States. In your response, consider both the strategic importance of oil and the costs, in money and lives, associated with engaging in the conflicts discussed in the article.