Arsenal of Democracy: The Politics of National Security--From World War II to the War on Terrorism. By Julian E. Zelizer. (New York: Basic, 2010. vi, 583 pp. $35.00, ISBN 978-0-465-01507-8.)

Abstract

Julian E. Zelizer's comprehensive study of American national security since the rise of the United States as a global superpower greatly expands scholarly understanding of recurring challenges in defining and protecting U.S. interests. Clear organization, meticulous research, and engaging analysis make this text essential reading in American diplomatic history and international politics. Four questions guide the study: Does Congress or the president drive national security policy? Do Democrats or Republicans hold the national security advantage? How big do we want our government to be? Should the United States go it alone? These questions identify important connections between the national security policy-making process and its results, which are instructive for understanding future policy constraints and opportunities. The importance of politics in shaping national security policies belies the Cold War-era phrase “politics stops at the water's edge” (p. 5). In fact, Democrats and Republicans routinely question each other's defense posture and policy priorities. Zelizer finds that while Republicans have been more successful in presenting their party as the stronger one on national defense, “the hawkish national security agenda has proven to be a devil's bargain for conservatism” (p. 6). Following through on tough rhetoric and far-reaching policy goals frequently comes into conflict with the conservative principle of limited government.