America’s debate

ENAR

Rarely has the Middle East been as distant as it is today from the principles of capitalist culture — a culture of open minds and open markets. Some markets are opening, very gingerly, but by and large the Arab world continues to perfect its reputation as a place where minds are kept resolutely closed. Enter a recent article by Richard Haass, the president of the Council on Foreign Relations. Haass has always been among the more effective proponents of a realist foreign policy, whereby the US should pursue its international aims according to a cold reading of where its national interests lie, without making it a priority to spread particular values, whether political, economic or social. Against this stands, supposedly, a more idealistic foreign policy, one focused on values. Idealists believe the US, and the international community in general, must make a priority of advancing human and humanitarian rights, freedom,