The Unilateral Power Struggle

Traces how the need for a coalition tempers American rhetoric without, in Chomsky’s view, changing the underlying preference for unilateral power.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Record of Unilateralism

A Record of Unilateralism Chomsky presents American policy as long accustomed to acting multilaterally when convenient and unilaterally otherwise. Declared Principle Officials have described cooperation as conditional on national preference. Continuity The post-September policy, in his account, extends familiar practice rather than marking a complete new departure.

Bush’s Earlier Isolation

Bush’s Earlier Isolation The Bush administration faces criticism from allies over positions on climate agreements, arms control, and international forums. A Wider Dispute The disagreements concern the limits of American authority and cooperation. Context for the Crisis The attacks create an opportunity to recruit allies after a period of diplomatic friction.

Coalition-Building Begins

Coalition-Building Begins Washington seeks support from governments across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. Bargaining for Assistance Military, political, and financial inducements accompany calls to join the campaign. Unequal Participation Chomsky expects allies to offer support without meaningfully shaping American decisions.

Rhetoric Softens

Rhetoric Softens The need for international partners moderates the administration’s public language. Appearance of Multilateralism Coalition-building can look like shared decision-making even when power remains concentrated. Policy Continuity Chomsky doubts that rhetorical adjustment alone signifies a substantive change in goals.

Power Remains Central

Power Remains Central Chomsky argues that Washington continues to reserve the right to act as it sees fit. Limited Institutional Role He sees little willingness to place the campaign under international institutions as law would require. The Coalition’s Limit A larger alliance does not necessarily mean greater accountability or genuine multilateral control.

From the 1990s into 2001

Before September 11, 2001

September 2001

Late September and October 2001

In the October 2001 interviews