Famous British historian Lord Acton once said, “Power tends to corrupt, and

absolute power corrupts absolutely.” This has been known to be a pattern throughout
history. It has been seen from the leaders of empires owned by the Romans and the
British to dictators in the Middle East such as Saddham Hussein. Those who have been
given power have tried to twist people’s sense of right and wrong into whatever they
wish. For this reason, the country that poses the largest threat to North America is
America. Power corrupts, after all. And who has more power than the United States?
This country is one of the biggest threats to itself and the world because of the
power that it holds. Throughout its two hundred thirty year history, it has increased
greatly in strength to the point where it has become a world power. It has even helped
create an international system in which it has very strong influence. We have become the
apex of this system as the lion is the apex of the Serengeti, devouring and killing
anything that threatens its power. Our position as the head has allowed us to influence
this system while devouring other members to facilitate our own survival and position.
For example, the US has been in many military nuances since World War II. Though
nuclear weapons were not used, it kept a looming presence that was feared by all. And in
all negotiations that we make with other countries, the nuclear option is always another
well-known card to play in our hands. Because of the threat we pose to other countries, it
is only a matter of time before another power rises in an attempt to keep the US in check.
Some would argue that Iran, North Korea, or China would be the primary threat to
this country. But this author would contend that any nation-state could not risk open
nuclear war with the US because of the assured repercussions. The major groups that
pose threats are terrorist groups and splinter cells. By alienating our allies as well as our
enemies, we create multiple sources of animosity towards the American way of life. The
compounded detestation of the rest of the international system lends itself to activity
counter to our cause increasing the possibility that factions will become coalitions that
oppose our interests.
It is true that this country’s goal is to make the world a safer place, not just to be
liked. While the two goals are not mutually exclusive, we must still attempt to make
gestures of cooperation and not simply enforce our ideals. The United States and its
leaders have been guilty time and time again of the sin of Hubris. Many of our political
actions with other countries have the best of intentions. We attempt to guard the world
and make it a safe place for everyone. However, we must remember not to let our power
and responsibility separate us from the very people that we mean to protect.