Syria begs question of America's role in the world

[mia]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-23997249

The president is clearing his desk, going all-out to persuade for a vote that he has said is vital for America's credibility.

It is also a critical moment for American perception of itself as a power in the world. But in the details of the debate over Syria, the biggest questions and the larger picture are in danger of being lost.

In essence, it's whether the world needs a super cop. And whether the US should simply assume that role.

...The argument for national interest is pretty clear. The desire to intervene for what you might call 'moral reasons', is far more murky....

[polly7]

1. No the world doesn't need a 'super-cop'.

If those who considered themselves the super-cops of the world wouldn't undermine world treaties and organizations meant to actually work for everyone, not just those they consider 'allies', even the term would be laughable. It seems to work at the moment though for those who need to feel righteous in each new opportunistic war of choice.

[malaise]

2. What I want to know is how warmongers feel righteous

It really is an inversion of reality

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10023586585
It's now part of the DNA

[polly7]

3. I saw that.

And Harper's made sure we're right there with you. There's nothing righteous about it, it's all sick and disgusting.