Re: What is this election's most dangerous idea?

I believe that this election’s most dangerous idea is the notion that a change in American leadership will somehow alter the perception of America abroad. Any serious student of history will know that hegemons are never loved but grudgingly respected. It was under President Clinton that the French gave America the derisive moniker “hyper-power”. Yet candidates peddle the fantasy that they and they alone can restore or reinvigorate the American brand overseas. Unlike the retail politics of campaigning, international relations recognizes one currency—power. As long as America remains a military and economic hegemon no change in American leadership will alter international perception.