America's Cultural Awakening
Abstract
Although the collapse of the Soviet Union elevated the United States to a hyper superpower status, globalization in terms of modernity, economics, security, and culture would dramatically affect its ascendancy. While globalization extended the reach of modernity and economics, it also fueled an insidious radical Islamic culture that would identify new security concerns extending beyond traditional boundaries. For a short moment America appeared able to implement foreign policy with little external influence. But the events of 9/11 and other acts of terror around the globe would reveal a geopolitical climate not easily overcome; and one impossible to overcome without a firm understanding of foreign cultures and languages. If America is to maintain its position of global leader well into the 21st century, the development of a national educational framework for understanding foreign cultures and languages is critical. This knowledge of culture and language will prove especially important in the development of U.S. foreign policy. Moreover, the military, and the Army in particular, must genuinely understand the cultures and languages of the places they are sent if they are to successfully carry out U.S. foreign policy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 30, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA469107
Entities
People
- William B. Brents
Organizations
- United States Army War College