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January 20, 2009
Obama on power and security
Just listened to Obama's inauguration speech: a very well-written speech. What stood out on first listen was the discussion of power and security: Obama emphasised that US power and security will depend in part on the battle of ideas, and that US security is compatible with defending the 'rights of man'. This type of emphasis - a move towards something like 'soft power' - is welcome, and will be a valuable correction to the damage that the Bush administration has done to America's reputation in the world.
Of course, such changes are much easier said than done. It's early days, though - and, as well as facing major challenges, Obama also has real opportunities open to him. Hopefully, he will be able to take advantage of them.
Posted by jon_mendel at January 20, 2009 05:28 PM
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