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Allies Quote by Lawrence Wright

“I don't hold America responsible for the largely oppressive governments in the 22 Arab countries. There are repressive Arab governments that are our allies and there are those that are our nominal enemies. It doesn't make a whole lot of difference to what extent we're involved in propping up those…” quote by Lawrence Wright
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“I don't hold America responsible for the largely oppressive governments in the 22 Arab countries. There are repressive Arab governments that are our allies and there are those that are our nominal enemies. It doesn't make a whole lot of difference to what extent we're involved in propping up those governments.”

Lawrence Wright

About This Quote

Source Book: The Looming Tower, 2006

U.S. involvement with oppressive regimes is morally complex, regardless of alliances.

In simple terms: U.S. backs both allies and enemies, blurring moral lines.

Key Takeaway

Consider ethical implications of foreign policy.

Themes

politics ethics foreign policy

Mood

reflective critical

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • diplomacy
  • military aid
  • development projects

Key Concepts

realpolitik human rights geopolitics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities do powerful nations have?
  • How to balance strategic interests with values?
A Different Perspective

Alliances may compromise moral consistency.

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