Why ‘America First’ Fails America
c Instead of focusing our attention and resources on ‘America First,’ we should invest in policies that help our country flourish regardless of who else benefits. The ‘America First’ idea has strong roots in our country’s history and is appealing to struggling Americans, but it’s not a good idea that will lead to a strong America. Here’s why ‘America First’ is bad for America.
What does America First mean?
The slogan “America First” has been used by various political figures and groups over the years. Most recently, President Trump has used it to justify protectionist policies and reduce international cooperation. Though the slogan has been used by many different groups and political figures, it can be argued that in the long term, America is not actually better off using this slogan.
America First has three primary aspects.
- Protect American jobs, businesses, and industries from international competition
- Reinforce American superiority against immigrants, companies, and countries
- Ignore international events that do not directly involve America and cut back on international assistance programs
What are the consequences of ‘America First’?
There are a number of consequences of following America First ideas. America becomes more isolated, loses influence over international events, and decreases cooperation and goodwill with other countries. In America, there is an increase in hostility towards immigrants, a reduction in immigration, fewer international visitors, and Americans potentially have more trouble traveling abroad or conducting business internationally.
This leads to reduced investment from abroad, less innovation from international partnerships and immigrants, and less diversity.
Why does America First not work for America?
America has been at the top of the top for a long time and it is important for the country to continue to be the best at what it does.
America has always been a country of immigrants, and our diversity has fueled a lot of our innovation. As the land of opportunity, we have attracted many of the best and brightest from around the world. By turning against globalism, we discourage this, reducing a significant source of traditional innovation and growth.
In addition, by reducing our presence globally, our reduced influence allows other countries to increase their influence. For example, both China and Russia have expanded their presence and influence. This reduced influence also translates to reduced economic opportunities.
Cutting back on international assistance and partnerships also risks both humanitarian crises and higher risks to American interests through pandemics and increased extremism.
What does America First mean for the rest of the world?
From an international perspective, America First encourages other countries to take America’s place and gain influence, innovation, and immigration.
As the only major superpower in the world, withdrawing from the global scene reduces the political stability of the world, and increases the power/influence of anti-American groups that would be more hesitant to act if America was still fully engaged. It can be argued that this encouraged Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, multiple issues in the Middle East, and the expansion of China’s claims in the South Pacific Ocean.
Looking further back in history, similar isolationist tendencies after World War I encouraged the rise of Germany, Italy, and Japan, eventually leading to World War II.
What are America’s true values?
America has always prized opportunity, freedom, and sacrifice. As a beacon of hope, liberty, and prosperity, America has long been an example of democracy for the rest of the world.
America is a land of immigrants. Those who are born here are American citizens, but America was built by immigrants. The United States is a place where if you work hard and play by the rules, you can succeed.
America celebrates freedom of speech and press, freedom of religion and assembly, and freedom to pursue your own dreams. Despite our rugged individualism, Americans have always helped others, finding common ground and working together to build a better future. America’s true values are about hard work, honesty, fairness, and compassion.
Conclusion
When you compare our true values to the goals of America First, we see a big conflict. America has benefited more by embracing globalism and taking an active role in international affairs. Any time we have turned away from the rest of the world has had significant negative consequences. Going back to our values and taking a more balanced approach than America First will have better long-term outcomes.
