Topic Guide
What Is America first?
America first is a subject covered in depth across 1 podcast episode in our database. Below you'll find key concepts, expert insights, and the top episodes to listen to — all distilled from hours of conversation by leading experts.
Key Concepts in America first
America first absolutist
This concept refers to a political stance prioritizing domestic interests and advocating for minimal or no intervention in foreign conflicts. The episode acknowledges the perspective of those who believe resources and human lives should not be spent on overseas wars, especially given past negative experiences with "forever wars."
Forever wars
This term describes prolonged military conflicts that have extended over many years, often without clear objectives or end-points, such as those in Iraq, Syria, and Libya. The episode uses this concept to explain the public's reluctance to engage in new foreign conflicts due to the high costs in human life and money.
What Experts Say About America first
- 1.Rita Panahi argues that the Iran conflict is a unique and critical issue, distinct from previous interventions in Iraq, Syria, or Libya.
- 2.Arguments for non-intervention, such as those from an "America first absolutist" perspective, are understandable given the human and financial costs of "forever wars."
- 3.The Iranian regime is a known sponsor of terrorism, an activity that affects countries globally.
- 4.Iran has directly orchestrated plots to assassinate foreign leaders, including the US president, indicating a direct and severe threat.
- 5.A significant internal sentiment exists within Iran, where "the overwhelming majority of Iranians want to be done with this regime."
- 6.Despite geographical distance, countries like the U.S. and Australia have compelling reasons to be concerned about Iran's actions.