American exceptionalism
At least two academic sources (only one of which may be one of the assigned readings)
“Most statements of “American exceptionalism” presume that America’s values, political system, and history are unique and worthy of universal admiration. They also imply that the United States is both destined and entitled to play a distinct and positive role on the world stage.
The only thing wrong with this self-congratulatory portrait of America’s global role is that it is mostly a myth. Although the United States possesses certain unique qualities — from high levels of religiosity to a political culture that privileges individual freedom — the conduct of U.S. foreign policy has been determined primarily by its relative power and by the inherently competitive nature of international politics.
By focusing on their supposedly exceptional qualities, Americans blind themselves to the ways that they are a lot like everyone else.” Do you agree with Professor Stephen Walt? Why? Why not?
Substantiate your argument with two historical examples referencing either Latin America or Africa.
