Should the U.S. Return To Leadership? Should America be more multilateral? Some have argued that, because of our unique super power status, we have an obligation to lead. Do you agree? Or, should we limit our involvement in matters that don’t directly aff

This is a discussion. Major: Social Science. The United States has been the only super power since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Nonetheless, since the beginning of the Trump administration, the U.S. has been withdrawing from the institutions developed to facilitate the Wilsonian global vision. As of this Spring, the World Trade Organization has been unable to enforce trade rules because the administration has vetoed the appointment of new judges. Thus, as panel members terms have expired, the panel has shrunk to a number below the required membership. Further, the administration has been endlessly critical of our allies while often defending the actions of repressive regimes such as Brazil, Russia and North Korea. Even in facing the crisis of Covid-19, the U.S. has refused to coordinate with other states. The absence of the U.S. was conspicuous at the recent summit to organize a multi-national effort to develop effective vaccines. While some have said “America first does not mean America alone”, in many instances the policies have been quite unilateral. Moreover, the absence of American leadership has led to other governments stepping into the vacuum. Should America be more multilateral? Some have argued that, because of our unique super power status, we have an obligation to lead. Do you agree? Or, should we limit our involvement in matters that don’t directly affect our interests?