Like all great policy questions, such as the choice between freedom and security, or the proper size and role of government, the tensions between cooperation and disagreement is ultimately a matter of balance—rather than either/or. And because Americans’ answers may differ over time, an equilibrium point from the last century, last decade or last year may not work today. As the United States increasingly confronts tough fiscal decisions and thus may want to rely more on diplomacy to pursue its international goals, getting the balance right merits serious consideration.

Paul J. Saunders is executive director of The Center for the National Interest and associate publisher of The National Interest. He served in the State Department from 2003 to 2005.