The Glenn Show

TGS Live: Is the Era of U.S. Military Dominance Over?

May 8, 2026
Daniel Bessner, historian of international relations who critiques U.S. foreign policy, joins the debate. He explores historical tendencies toward concentrated power and questions continual military dominance. Short takes on Iran diplomacy, contrasts between compromise and projection of force, and whether hawkish postures remain popular today.
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INSIGHT

Tendencies Shape Power More Than Determinism

  • Power concentrations have recurring tendencies that shape outcomes rather than strict determinism.
  • Daniel Bessner argues tendencies like wealth concentration and unjust power use require serious attention even if not inevitable.
INSIGHT

Iran Shows Diplomacy Versus Dominance

  • Different U.S. approaches to Iran illustrate two models: pragmatic diplomacy versus assertive dominance.
  • Glenn Loury contrasts Obama's JCPOA negotiation with Trump's withdrawal and subsequent hawkish posture toward Iran.
ADVICE

Favor Negotiation Over Imposed Dominance

  • Avoid assuming military dominance always produces better outcomes; favor negotiation when full imposition is unrealistic.
  • Glenn Loury recommends concessions and dialogue, citing JCPOA as stabilizing U.S. interests against an aggressive military posture.
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