The Limits of Power: The End of American Exceptionalism
Aug 2008 · Metropolitan Books
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About this ebook
"Andrew Bacevich speaks truth to power, no matter who's in power, which may be why those of both the left and right listen to him."—Bill Moyers
An immediate New York Times bestseller, The Limits of Power offers an unparalleled examination of the profound triple crisis facing America: an economy in disarray that can no longer be fixed by relying on expansion abroad; a government transformed by an imperial presidency into a democracy in name only; and an engagement in endless wars that has severely undermined the body politic.
Writing with knowledge born of experience, conservative historian and former military officer Andrew J. Bacevich argues that if the nation is to solve its predicament, it will need the revival of a distinctly American approach: the neglected tradition of realism. In contrast to the multiple illusions that have governed American policy since 1945, he calls for respect for power and its limits; aversion to claims of exceptionalism; skepticism of easy solutions, especially those involving force; and a conviction that Americans must live within their means. Only a return to such principles, Bacevich eloquently argues, can provide common ground for fixing America's urgent problems before the damage becomes irreparable.
An immediate New York Times bestseller, The Limits of Power offers an unparalleled examination of the profound triple crisis facing America: an economy in disarray that can no longer be fixed by relying on expansion abroad; a government transformed by an imperial presidency into a democracy in name only; and an engagement in endless wars that has severely undermined the body politic.
Writing with knowledge born of experience, conservative historian and former military officer Andrew J. Bacevich argues that if the nation is to solve its predicament, it will need the revival of a distinctly American approach: the neglected tradition of realism. In contrast to the multiple illusions that have governed American policy since 1945, he calls for respect for power and its limits; aversion to claims of exceptionalism; skepticism of easy solutions, especially those involving force; and a conviction that Americans must live within their means. Only a return to such principles, Bacevich eloquently argues, can provide common ground for fixing America's urgent problems before the damage becomes irreparable.
Ratings and reviews
4.3
7 reviews
A Google user
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November 23, 2010
It is the best of his books and they are all good. I have re-read this one many times. It is powerful, illuminating, and there isn't a wasted word.
A Google user
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July 27, 2010
three crises are outlined in the spheres of fiscal policy, politics (the division of power among the branches of gov't) and the civilian-military nexus and how they have thrown into question a core assumption presumed by most foreign policy ideologies: american exceptionalism.
bacevich is decidedly not a foreign policy ideologue. he's not a liberal or neocon and doesn't seem to be a foreign policy "realist" either. bacevich draws from the well of reinhold niebuhr. he rejects conventional ideological simplifications and provides an analysis founded on insights into the way american institutions function today. he's one of the few in the foreign policy select that is honest about america's history and growing dysfunction.
best quote is from donald rumsfield: "we have two choices - either we change the way we live or we must change the way they live. we choose the latter." ... we are left to ponder the path not taken.
A Google user
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August 28, 2010
First half pretty good, second falls off.
About the author
Andrew J. Bacevich, a professor of history and international relations at Boston University, retired from the U.S. Army with the rank of colonel. He is the author of The New American Militarism, among other books. His writing has appeared in Foreign Affairs, The Atlantic Monthly, The Nation, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal. He is the recipient of a Lannan award and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.
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