Obama Denies American Exceptionalism
There is, however, another passage that deserves highlighting for its view of America's place in the world:
“Given our interdependence, any world order that elevates one nation or group of people over another will inevitably fail. So whatever we think of the past, we must not be prisoners of it. Our problems must be dealt with through partnership; progress must be shared.”
Obviously, this was not the place and time for an explication of American exceptionalism. But implicitly to suggest that it's ever thinkable for rogue -- or terrorist, or repressive -- regimes to be treated on par with civilized countries with respect for basic human rights reflects a moral obtuseness (or an effort to win friendship at any price) that's truly breathtaking.
Oh, and what does he have in mind when he incants that "progress must be shared"? Making sure that Iran's "right" to nuclear power is secure? Or is it, again, just another bid for popularity through bribery?
The President has taking a big gamble, obviously hoping that the Arab world will decide to be impressed by and follow the "friendly" horse, rather than the strong one.
And let's hope that none of our adversaries concludes that the "friendly" horse is nothing but a weakling -- but don't bet on it.