And not said is the geopolitical reality that such arrogance will force other nations to find security where they can. If necessary, they will form alliances which will create a counter-balancing superpower.

I believe we're seeing that now on the European continent with the emerging economic strength of the EU and Russia's increasing world influence. Add a growing China and you have economic interests very well able to challenge the US in the not-too-distance future. Russia with it's nearby energy is a natural for a long-term alliance with either the EU or China or both.

With America's economy weakened by debt and deficits, that economy increasingly dependent upon the goodwill of other nations, with her military drained with rebuilding to take at least a decade the role of the US will change drastically in the next 20 years.

There are also internal social problems in the US. Many people are cut out of the "dream". There are more people in prison in the US than any other nation, and their kids aren't going to be much better. Could be, but probably won't. The increasing disparity in wealth coupled with the attacks on the middle class and increasing illegal immigration will create stresses which will further hamper America's effectiveness as a world power.

All bets are off if the Conservatives start a large major war in a last gasp at world imperialism and to keep folks minds off troubles at home. I wouldn't put it past them, but it won't be for a while.

Arf