Mission Creep: The Militarization of Us Foreign Policy?

Has the Department of Defense (DOD) assumed too large of a role in influencing and implementing US foreign policy? After the Cold War, and even more so after September 11th, the United States has adjusted to the new global environment by drawing upon the enormous resources of DOD. This book investigates and offers different views on the extent to which military leaders and DOD have increased their influence and activity in areas such as foreign aid, development, diplomacy, policy debates, and covert operations. The book concludes that there has been a militarization of US foreign policy. It explores the institutional and political causes and the implications. "Militarization" as it is used here does not refer to generals directly challenging civilian control over policy; it is a more subtle phenomenon wherein the military more and more becomes the primary actor and face of US policy abroad. The book offers policy recommendations about how to rebalance the role of civilian agencies in foreign policy decisionmaking and implementation.

Author: Gordon Adams
Publisher: Georgetown University Press
Published: 12/12/2014
Pages: 256
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.97lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.84d
ISBN13: 9781626160934
ISBN10: 1626160937
BISAC Categories:
- Political Science | International Relations | General
- Political Science | Security (National & International)

About the Author

Gordon Adams is a professor at American University's School of International Service. From 1993 to 1997, he was associate director for national security and international affairs at the Office of Management and Budget. His publications include the coauthored Buying National Security.

Shoon Murray is an associate professor at American University's School of International Service and director of their US Foreign Policy and National Security master's degree program. She is the author of Anchors against Change.