Sunday, September 5, 2010

What Does A Superpwer Do When It Is Broke? -- A Commentary


Superbroke, Superfrugal, Superpower? -- Thomas Friedman, New York Times

In recent years, I have often said to European friends: So, you didn’t like a world of too much American power? See how you like a world of too little American power — because it is coming to a geopolitical theater near you. Yes, America has gone from being the supreme victor of World War II, with guns and butter for all, to one of two superpowers during the cold war, to the indispensable nation after winning the cold war, to “The Frugal Superpower” of today. Get used to it. That’s our new nickname. American pacifists need not worry any more about “wars of choice.” We’re not doing that again. We can’t afford to invade Grenada today.

Read more ....

My Comment:
I have been reading Tom Friedman since he was based in Lebanon/Israel. I use to agree with him all the time, but now I tend not to. However .... he does make some very good points in this opinion piece. Read it all.

What is my take .... the Roman Empire at its peak had many experiences of being financially strapped. The Emperors and the Roman Government resolved this by either starting other wars of conquest, or grabbing the wealth from it's own elite. I expect history will repeat itself.

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