Can great powers remake other societies?
An argument by John J. Mearsheimer, examined through its original source and the questions it leaves open.
This record outlines a published position and questions for readers. It is not yet a full examination of the author's evidence or counterarguments.
The position
Mearsheimer argues that American attempts to spread liberal democracy abroad face powerful constraints from nationalism and great-power politics; he favors greater restraint.
What the source establishes
This is the documented thesis of his book, not a statement that every military intervention produces the same outcome. The argument must be assessed across distinct historical cases.
Where the argument needs testing
Compare stated policy aims with specific results, allied security outcomes and alternative explanations. Assess whether different interventions truly share the mechanisms his theory proposes.
What remains unfinished
Revisit the framework when new alliance commitments or interventions produce measurable outcomes.