We defended our allies in Europe for 40 years during the worst days of the Cold War - very threatening days of the Cold War - and nothing happened. So deterrence does work.

World War II and the ensuing Cold War compelled the United States to develop a sustained commitment to Western Europe and the Far East.

We have to make a really cold judgement. Would the consequence of civil war be more devastating than the consequences of staying the course?

The Sino-American competition involves two significant realities that distinguish it from the Cold War: neither party is excessively ideological in its orientation; and both parties recognize that they really need mutual accommodation.

Both World War II and the subsequent Cold War gave America's involvement in world affairs a clear focus. The objectives of foreign policy were relatively easy to define, and they could be imbued with high moral content.

The jealousy and resentment that animate the terrorists also affect many of our former cold war allies.