Final Paper

Final Paper Assignment
Due: Exam Time on Wednesday, 30 July 2008 (Section 762) or Thursday, 31 July 2008 (Section 305)

Position Paper: Pax Americana

This semester we have encountered, in various civilizations and in various centuries, the notion that the strongest military power in the world is also challenged (or even obliged) to be the world's policeman. In an essay, at least three complete double-spaced pages in length, express your opinions on the concept of a Pax Americana.

Some tips:

• This is a big topic. If you are more comfortable with writing a broad overview, great. But you are also welcome to focus on an aspect of Pax Americana (relations with other superpowers; America's perceived manifest destiny; military preparedness).
• Back up your opinions with facts. This position paper will necessarily be subjective, but you will still be required to reference historical situations and/or concepts from this semester's readings. A stream of "I think this" and "I think that" without some sort of basis will receive a low grade.
• Be firm, yet friendly. There is nothing wrong with bringing your strong political beliefs into your position paper, but refrain from insulting people who might believe otherwise. We Americans don't have to agree with each other, or necessarily like each other. But we are obliged to live peacefully with each other.