"What Uncle Sam Really Wants?" is a groundbreaking book written by the renowned linguist and philosopher, Noam Chomsky. First published in 1992, this book is a scathing critique of the US foreign policy and its role in perpetuating global conflict, poverty, and suffering.
In this review, I will delve into the book's main arguments, exploring Chomsky's analysis of the US's true intentions and the devastating consequences of its policies.
A symbol of imperialism
At the heart of Chomsky's argument is the notion that the United States is driven by a desire for global dominance and control. He asserts that the US's " Uncle Sam" is not a benevolent figure, but rather a symbol of imperialism, seeking to expand its influence and maintain its power at any cost. Chomsky's thesis is that the US's foreign policy is not motivated by altruistic goals, such as promoting democracy, freedom, or human rights, but rather by the pursuit of its own national interests, including economic and strategic advantages.
US's involvement in Central America
Chomsky begins by examining the US's involvement in Central America during the 1980s. He critiques the Reagan administration's policies, which included the assassination of Archbishop Romero, the bombing of Nicaragua, and the support of extremist groups in El Salvador. Chomsky argues that these actions were part of a broader strategy to maintain US dominance in the region, suppress popular movements, and protect US business interests.
New World Order
One of the book's most compelling chapters is Chomsky's critique of the "New World Order" and the US's role in shaping international relations. He argues that the US's efforts to create a new global order are designed to buttress its own power and reinforce its dominance over other nations. Chomsky contends that this new world order is characterized by US military interventionism, economic domination, and the suppression of popular resistance.
US's role in the Middle East
Chomsky's analysis is not limited to Central America. He also explores the US's role in the Middle East, examining the1982 Israeli invasion of Lebanon, the Iran-Contra affair, and the US's support of Saddam Hussein during the Gulf War. He argues that these actions were motivated by a desire to maintain US influence in the region, protect Israeli interests, and secure access to Middle Eastern oil resources.
In his book "What Uncle Sam Really Wants?", Noam Chomsky provides a fierce critique of the United States' foreign policy in the Middle East, particularly with regard to Israel and Palestine.
Backing all Israel’s aggressive expansionist policies
Chomsky argues that the US has consistently backed Israel's aggressive expansionist policies, including the 1982 Israeli invasion of Lebanon, the annexation of the Golan Heights, and the occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. He also criticizes the US's support for the Israeli military's brutal suppression of Palestinian resistance and its construction of settlements in occupied territory.
Full Support to Israel
Chomsky believes that the US's backing of Israel is driven by a combination of factors, including:
- Strategic interests: The US sees Israel as a key partner in maintaining its dominance over the Middle East and access to the region's oil resources.
- Domestic political considerations: Israel's powerful lobby in the United States, as well as the close ties between leading politicians and Israel's leaders, contribute to the country's unwavering support.
- Ideological affinity: The US's right-wing ideologues and the Israeli government share a commitment to neoliberalism, militarism, and anti-communism.
In the book, Chomsky also examines the US's role in the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Syrian Israeli peace negotiations. He argues that the US has consistently sought to undermine Palestinian nationalism and the PLO's efforts to establish a viable state, instead-supporting Israeli interests and promoting a settlement that favors Israel's colonizing objectives.
US's complicity in Israel's human rights abuses and war crimes
One of the most striking aspects of Chomsky's analysis is his exposure of the US's complicity in Israel's human rights abuses and war crimes. He provides a detailed account of the US's support for Israel's aggressive military tactics, including the use of cluster bombs, and its failure to condemn Israel's treatment of Palestinian civilians, including women and children.
Chomsky's critique of the US's foreign policy is not limited to high-level politics. He also examines the ways in which the US economic system perpetuates global inequality and suffering. He argues that the US's neoliberal economic policies, including trade liberalization, privatization, and deregulation, have led to the exploitation of developing nations and the deepening of global poverty.
Throughout the book, Chomsky supports his arguments with a wide range of evidence, including government documents, media reports, and personal testimony. He is particularly effective in highlighting the contradictions and hypocrisy of US foreign policy, exposing how the US has used its power to undermine democracy, manipulate international institutions, and suppress dissent.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its accessibility and clarity. Chomsky's writing is engaging and easy to follow, making complex issues and concepts accessible to a broad audience. His use of illustrations, anecdotes, and examples helps to bring the abstract concepts of global politics to life, making the book a triumph of clear and concise communication.
While "What Uncle Sam Really Wants?" has flaws, Chomsky's analysis is largely persuasive and thought-provoking. His critique of the US's foreign policy is courageous and well-documented, and his arguments are likely to resonate with anyone who has followed the news or witnessed the devastating consequences of the US's actions.
In conclusion, "What Uncle Sam Really Wants?" is a seminal work that offers a searing critique of the US's foreign policy and its devastating consequences. Chomsky's analysis is a wake-up call, urging readers to question the official narrative and rethink their US foreign policy assumptions. As the world grapples with the challenges of globalization, terrorism, and climate change, this book serves as a timely reminder of the need for critical thinking, skepticism, and a commitment to social justice.
Chomsky's critique of US policy in the Middle East is unflinching, and his analysis remains relevant today. The book is a powerful indictment of US foreign policy and its consequences for the people of the region.
Sources:
Chomsky, N. (1992). What Uncle Sam Really Wants.
