America's post-Second World War decision to become Europe's guardian was not beyond criticism, but it was grounded in the rational calculation that Europe's domination by a hostile global power could gravely threaten American security and prosperity. Today and for the foreseeable future, peace and stability in Europe face several important threats, but an ambitious would-be military hegemon is not one of them. Instead Europe looms primarily as a series of traps and dangers that could bog down American forces in hot spots having no bearing on U.S. security. The reasons for this last, especially troubling development should be obvious. The United States and the countries of Europe are of different sizes, have different historical experiences, are located in different places, and have different needs in various parts of the world.
American leaders continue to talk openly of tilting toward the more dynamic Pacific Basin.
And European leaders increasingly contemplate an economic future without strong ties to whatever trade bloc America joins or creates. Yet despite some important continuing differences, never since the early post-Second World War decades have the United States and Europe had more in common economically. At the same time, Europe's Single Market program has promoted the liberalization and opening of European economies. Consequently, it is now realistic to talk of the United States and Europe working together to open markets around the world and to secure global economic rules compatible with Western interests and values. Shared or at least similar solutions should be high on their agendas.