I appreciate your point of view on these issues. I simply challenge the status quo.

Economics is key to understanding certain geopolitical situations. I believe these reflections should be explored and expanded.

We are living in a fast evolving globalized economy. Geography and control over resources are beginning to shape the political process and foreign policy, influencing economics and global markets.

I think you missed my point on sanctions. I agree sanctions are a foreign policy instrument used to influence governments and sometimes effective when used properly and long enough. But, at what cost? Sanctions do more to impoverish innocent civilians and create unrest. I believe the first instrument diplomacy, would be ideal. But, as you know, that doesn’t always work. My point, I believe governments sometimes use sanctions to purposefully create unrest, as current leadership or policies aren’t responding in their best interest.

Thank you for the recommended reading. I have studied the subject for some time and respect those you mentioned, but we live in changing times.

Again, I appreciate your opinion. Differing views challenge us to see beyond our knowing and inspire learning.