Administration Quote by Robert Scheer
“The fact is ... that when totalitarian nations like China and Saudi Arabia play ball with U.S. business interests, we like them just fine. But when Venezuela's freely elected president threatens powerful corporate interests, the Bush administration treats him as an enemy.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Commentary on US foreign policy, 2006
Highlights double hypocrisy in US treatment of authoritarian regimes versus elected leaders threatening corporate interests.
In simple terms: US treats dictators kindly but elected leaders harshly when corporate interests are at stake.
Recognize and challenge double standards in policy.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- academic debate
- activist campaigns
- journalistic reporting
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do corporate interests shape foreign policy?
- What mechanisms can ensure consistent human rights standards?
The US may argue strategic interests justify differing approaches.