Emboldened Cooperative Security: Globalization and 21st Century U.S. Security

Abstract

Abstract : This SRP examines the impact of the continuing process of economic globalization - and thus political globalization - on U.S. strategic requirements. In the view of some observers, progressing globalization is causing significant long-term effects on U.S. national security interests that must be analyzed and understood. This SRP reviews the origins of globalization and its influence on U.S. national security interests - within the context of a still evolving post-September 11th strategic landscape. In order to put globalization in perspective, it is examined in the context of prevailing U.S. strategic interests. The SRP then analyzes U.S. strategic vulnerabilities and opportunities created by revolutionary global information technology, the integration of global cultures and religions; and globalization's impact on the global political environment. This SRP concludes that the United States should engage fully in the globalized world through a carefully crafted strategy of Emboldened Cooperative Security. This proposed strategy focuses on the maintenance of a properly sized military force; the use of multilateral approaches; integrated interagency efforts; and an effects-based approach. There are many gaps and seams that military force alone cannot shape without the help of other nations. This strategy is intended to ensure the availability of that help.