Abstract This paper questions the historical use of economicsanctions as a politically heavy-handed tool. It first looks at the historical sanctions that the United States has employed against Cuba and the results that have been seen through the decades. Then it looks at the sanctions that were used against South Africa, somewhat successfully, but questions if these were the reason for the end of Apartheid.
From the Paper "It seems that we are in an age that loves the "retro," what is old and was once commonplace but is now considered "cool." We embrace motion pictures that are questionable but now nostalgic, we adorn ourselves with clothes that for so long were thought of as yesterday's fashions but are now again trendy. This type of nostalgia and reversion is not only occurring among materialistic avenues; it is also happening in our political thinking and worldviews. It seems only yesterday when the United States was worrying itself over Communism and gulags, over dictators and the Middle East. But that has popped up again, and not just in the "big" war that is happening. We are considering economic sanctions against North Korea and Iran, and we have them in place, not to mention more than a hundred thousand troops, in Iraq."
Abstract The writer examines the history of the development of economicsanctions. It defines this tactic as a type of coercive diplomacy, a strategic political tactic by which a demand to one's adversary is backed up with a threat of punishment for non-compliance that is estimated to be severe enough to be persuasive. The paper traces the policy back to the bible, differentiating between economicsanctions and blackmail.
From the Paper "Coercive diplomacy consists of four possible tactics: a demand, the means used to create a sense of urgency, threatened punishment for noncompliance and possible incentives. Differences and combinations of these tactics provide five type basic types of coercive diplomacy, identified as the ultimatum, the tacit ultimatum, the "try-and-see" approach the "gradual turning of the screw", and the carrot and stick approach. (3)"
Abstract In an attempt to influence the behaviour of other states, while avoiding the consequences of military conflict, many states or coalitions of states employ economicsanctions. Proponents of these types of measures argue that they can and do influence the actions of sanctioned states. Their critics argue that they carry little diplomatic weight and impose undue suffering on innocent individuals within the sanctioned state. This case examines the application of sanctions against Iraq in the past decades and concludes that they have had few positive consequences and profoundly negative and immoral impacts.
Abstract This paper explains why sanctions are not only not antiquated but rather vitally important for the long-term health and security of the United States or any nation. The author points out there is ample evidence that economicsanctions do work to discourage rogue states from continuing with their aggressive and frequently destructive policies. The paper concludes that multilateral sanctions are the most effective means of extending foreign policy influence and is a favorable alternative to military intervention.
From the Paper "Despite its many critics, there is ample evidence that economic sanctions do work to discourage rogue states from continuing with their aggressive and frequently destructive policies. That said, economic sanctions are only effective if they have the support of the international community and are applied with a measure of practicality that is sometimes sorely lacking in the corridors of power. This paper will discuss the above matters in greater detail with the hope that the end of this paper will bring with it an appreciation for the various ways that economic sanctions can help rather than hinder a nation's foreign policy."
Abstract This paper describes how U.S. foreign policy has developed as the result of American efforts to influence the price and supply of oil in OPEC countries. Also examined are the impact of variations in the supply and price of oil on the U.S. economy, the 1970 oil crisis, the impact of the Persian Gulf War, and the current unrest in the Middle East in this context. A summary of the research is presented in the conclusion.
Outline
Major Players and Events Influencing U.S. Foreign Policy
Overview of Issues Related to EconomicSanctions Overview of the Persian Gulf
Impact of the Persian Gulf War of U.S. Foreign Policy
U.S. Foreign Policy and the Strategic Petroleum Reserve
From the Paper "Since the 1973 OPEC oil embargo, U.S. dependence on oil imports has risen to record levels, from 28 percent in 1973 to 48 percent in 1997 ("The 1973 Oil Embargo: What Have We Learned In the Last 25 Years",? n. pag.). Through 1972, Americans had become accustomed to expanding energy consumption with minimal concerns about the constancy of supply or sharp price escalations. In 1973, however, expectations about energy supply changed dramatically. The turmoil started early in 1973, as customers experienced the first symptoms of something being wrong with electricity brown outs and rapidly rising prices for fuels and other necessities. Price controls and allocation systems not only failed to resolve these problems, they seemed to aggravate them. Most memorably, October brought an oil embargo by members of the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries, cutting further into the supply of oil and elevating prices to levels previously thought impossible. Customers experienced lines and sometimes no fuel at gasoline stations. A year of bad news was punctuated in December, when the President announced that because of the energy crisis the lights on the national Christmas tree would not be turned on. Throughout the year, energy stayed at the forefront of public attention. Interruptions in energy supplies were also closely related to other issues of national importance-a weakening of the economy and a reassessment of America's strategic position in the world. From 1973 to the mid-1980's, prices continued at very high levels, in part because of a second oil shock in 1979-80. During this period, rapid progress was made in raising American oil production, reducing dependence on oil imports, and improving end-use efficiency. After the oil price collapse of the mid-1980's, however, prices retreated to more moderate levels, the pace of efficiency gains slowed, American oil production fell, and the share of imports rose. Other, more violent events in the Middle East, however, would soon create a new political situation in which the U.S. was to be forced to create foreign policy directly as a result of America's need for oil."
This paper examines the United States national security during the application of economicsanctions against the Republic of Panama in 1988 and 1989: History of U.S.-Panama relations, potential effects of sanctions, U.S. sanction efforts against other
2,925 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 11 sources, 1990, $ 103.95
From the Paper "This research examines United States (U.S.) national security in the context of the application of economic sanctions against the Republic of Panama in 1988 and 1989. The topic is examined through (1) a brief review of the history of AmericanPanamanian bilateral relations, (2) an assessment of the potential effects on Panama of economic sanctions, (3) an examination of approach of the U.S. government toward the use of economic sanctions, and (4) the results achieved by the U.S. through the application of economic sanctions against Panama. The final section of this research presents a statement of the conclusions drawn from the findings of the research."
Abstract This paper examines the international factors that led to the end of apartheid in South Africa. Over the years, the system increasingly came under fire from international sources both inside and outside governments. It discusses how from economicsanctions to grassroots political activism, external sources played an enormous role in pressuring the South African government to reform and subsequently abolish Apartheid in 1993.
From the Paper "Although generally slower to react than other outside sources, world governments including international "government" played a crucial role in the demise of the apartheid system in South Africa. Both the General Assembly and Security Council in the UN imposed sanctions against South Africa in order to exert pressure to change. A series of resolutions and sanctions by the UN beginning in 1962 truly began the formal international efforts to end apartheid. A resolution in ?62 called for all UN states to break diplomatic relations with South Africa, boycott South African trade, and refuse landing rights to all planes belonging to the South African government."
Tags:economic, sanctions, arms, embargos, boycott, blacks, un
Abstract This paper studies the economic impact of apartheid in South Africa between 1948 and 1991. It looks at post war economic problems and the rise of the National Party, its ruthless enforcement of apartheid and South Africa as one of the most unequal countries in the world.
From the Paper "This sent shock waves through the white community particularly among white South Africans in the lowest economic strata who feared that companies would replace them with lower wage earning Black workers. This resulted in a knee jerk reaction among the all-white electorate. According to Stephen Lewis this reaction resulted in the surprise election victory ..."
Tags:Economic impact, apartheid, south africa, mandella, anc, sanctions, united nations, national party, poverty, minority, majority
This paper looks into the case of a young person with a history of minor criminal offenses and discusses the issue of residential intermediate sanction programs.
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 3 sources, 2006, $ 26.95
Abstract In this article, the writer examines the case of a young person who is a habitual thief and whose rehabilitation has been stalled despite probation and intensive supervision. The paper argues against certain forms of residential intermediate sanction programs such as boot camp or home confinement in favor of a half-way house environment wherein he can be thrust into a leadership role while trained professionals deal with his behavioral issues in a non-threatening and supportive way. The writer maintains that all in all, this appears to be the best solution for Ricardo and the best solution for society as a whole.
From the Paper "The case of Ricardo is common enough in contemporary society. He is 19 years-old (no longer a juvenile) and he has a history of minor criminal offenses including Driving under the Influence, burglary and shoplifting. He is not physically violent and has never been convicted of a felony. His present offense is larceny, committed when he stole from a customer of the carpet-laying business for which he previously worked. According to probation reports, he needs more structure than can be offered by probation or by intensive supervision - but nowhere is there a recommendation for a prison sentence. All in all, he needs to gain more discipline, better work habits and greater respect for others. Given what has been outlined above, it is clear that an intermediate sanction program is in order - but what kind of sanction program is best for Ricardo is, as of yet ..."
Explains India's economic performance by taking an in depth look at the economic, political and social change that has taken place within India during the postwar years.
2,900 words (approx. 11.6 pages), 5 sources, 2002, $ 106.95
Abstract This comprehensive study is aimed at the major economic, political, cultural and social changes and crises that have taken place within India during the period in question and it will attempt to assess the extent to which these factors have shaped the country's economic performance. Included in this analysis will be an assessment of economic development and social change, the economic and political aspects of agricultural change, as well as political change, political structure and the functioning of government. Attention will also be directed towards the caste conflict and language differences as well as the extent to which they have had an impact on the level of economic development that India has been able to achieve and the nature of this development. The main hypothesis that will be tested in this study will be the following: while India has achieved relatively significant economic advances during recent years, especially in light of the country's status as a Third World nation, these advances have been limited.
Abstract This paper reviews Diane Coyle's book "Sex, Drugs, and Economics," which uses far-reaching examples such as the sex industry, illegal drugs, and sports to illustrate basic economic concepts. Coyle's thesis is that economics can explain human behavior in virtually every sphere of human life. Her book attempts to show this through basic economic concepts, such as supply and demand. Economics also is helpful to make apparently inexplicable aspects of human life clearer, such as why persons engage in risky activities more as teens than during other periods of their life, or why people chose to take illegal drugs. The paper concludes by stating that Coyle's book makes economics more understandable through its original and refreshing format.
From the Paper "Coyle analyzes the drug industry to examine the ways in which the industry functions much like a legitimate market. For example, dealers give away free samples, like marketers do with new forms of soap or shampoo, to get potential customers addicted or 'hooked' upon the product. (9) However, despite the fact that up to 50 percent of Americans have tried some form of illicit drug, not all drug consumers become hooked--the core market of persons who are addicted drive the incentive of sellers to continue to supply their habit, and the lack of comparable substitute goods for growers that yield a competitive profit creates an incentive to maintain the supply of the drug. (10)"
Abstract This paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of forming an economic union, and possibly a monetary union to which members could, subject to conditions, apply to join. Factors such as possible membership, timetable, trade and investment effects, convergence of economies, economic and social consequences and administrative structure are covered briefly, yet concisely. The experiences of the European Union/Monetary Union are used as support for the arguments which are presented in the paper.
Outline:
Introduction
Background of the study
The Aim of an Economic Union
The Disadvantages of an Economic Union
Economic Union and the Dilemma of Collective Action
Arguments Against an Economic Union
Advantages for an Economic Union
Conclusion
From the Paper "A vital question for the triumph of an economic union is whether the economic union placed by an autonomous, supranational central bank in addition to fiscal (and other) procedures managed by a national government is helpful not only to price-steadiness but also towards economic development. This concern related to an economic union stems mainly from the commencement of the euro during 1999. Since the Euro inception, there has been a constant flow of disapproval concerning the EU'S system for economic union and harmonization. The Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) - perhaps, the most well-known aspects of union -- has been constantly criticized by economists as an unimagined, dull and eventually counter-productive procedure that encourages pro-cyclic fiscal procedures, slows down economic revival and harms the durable growth prospective of the EU financial system. In addition, accusation has also been cited, quite frequently, against the incapability of the policy structure to provide a logical policy blend, as well as, laments the deficient of suppleness in policy management (Fitoussi and Creel, 2002)."
Abstract Paul Krugman's book, The Return of Depression Economics, examines the economies of seven different countries that produce the majority of the economic output of the world, and how each has been affected by major economic slumps throughout the world. This interesting yet very complicated book offers a tour of the major economic crises which have spread across the world in the 1990s, including those of East Asia, Brazil, Mexico, and Russia. Paul Krugman provides brief accounts of the devaluation of Thailand's baht currency, the "financial doomsday machine" created by hedge funds, and the "liquidity trap" of the Japanese economy. Krugman's light journalistic style is easy to read for the most part and is well-targeted at his intended audience. Many of the nine chapters stand very well on their own as slightly extended versions of what is known in the US as op-ed pieces. For example, the chapter on hedge funds contains as clear an explanation of the operation of such funds as a layman could get anywhere. It also contains a number of brief, enlightening and well-written stories under sub-headings like 'The Legend of George Soros' and 'The Madness of Prime Minister Mahathir', and concludes with 'The Panic of 1998' which outlines the demise of Long Term Capital Management. In other chapters there are equally succinct and fascinating stories concerning Mexico, Argentina, Thailand and so on. Some of these extracts ought to make very useful reading to stimulate discussion on undergraduate macro, international or development economics courses. It is the purpose of this paper to examine the major themes of Krugman's book.
Abstract This paper discusses how neoclassical economics provides an evaluation of current economic situations as they relate to elements within society. Neoclassical economics is a form of macroeconomics that allows for an evaluation of these elements that may include pricing employment spending consumption and the value of money. The paper further discusses how neoclassical economists as more capable of realizing the shift in the economy over time they can then produce resolutions to issues that may be affecting the problems that are related to the current economic condition. Neoclassical economics also focuses on the individual and his or her relationship to the economy.
Abstract This paper discusses the question of including thermodynamics in the study of economics. It is very important to include it when studying neo-classical economics and free-market activity because it alone seems capable of introducing consumption pattern analysis into the study of economics. Thermodynamics is important within ecological economics and within economics in general because the environment within which all economies function is anchored in a finite system that is constrained by its very nature and character.
From the Paper "Resources are limited and many are not reproducible in any type of practical natural sense that would allow even sustainable growth models to be applicable. Petroleum will eventually be completely depleted and the natural process of producing it is simply not a practical option that would result in sustainable consumption patterns. "
