You can't win if you're chasing the wrong problem.

Part of what is wrong with the view of American imperialism is that it is antithetical to our interests. We are better off when people are governing themselves. I'm sure there is some guy that will tell you that philosophy is no different from the Roman Empire's. Well, it is fundamentally different.

chasing the wrong rabbit.

Look, I think the notion that there's a dogma or doctrine of foreign policy that gives you a textbook recipe for how to react to all situations is really nonsense.

If they got it wrong, it's their problem,

Public action should seek to expand the set of opportunities of those who have the least voice and fewest resources and capabilities.