Using Table 15.1, how do neoliberals and conservatives differ? Identify their general orientations. What positions do the two groups take on when and how the military should be used? How did each group view the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

An ideal response will:
1, Identify how neoliberals are transformers who are optimists and view the United States as being in an unchallenged position to bring about changes in other states that will protect American goals and values, while conservatives are maintainers who are pessimists and see the international system as a threat to American interests.
2, Describe how neoliberals do not reject the use of military force, but they do believe that nonmilitary means such as foreign aid and economic assistance programs should be used first, and they value the support of international institutions.
3, Reveal how conservatives see military power as a resource that should be maintained and used carefully; the United States must be prepared to use force when U.S. interests require, but it is better to do so with support because it is more effective when it is seen as legitimate.
4, Describe how neoliberals felt that the United States, before getting into the wars, should have pursued nonmilitary means, such as economic sanctions and weapons inspections, to control or remove the governments.
5, Reveal how conservatives favored the international alliance employed in Afghanistan over the U.S.-centered approach used in Iraq, and they saw the Iraq War as a distraction from the true enemy, Osama bin Laden and his terrorists.