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From: Iansito
T1: iansito@worldnet.att.net
Date: 10/21/99
Time: 7:21:53 PM
Remote Name: 12.78.97.135
The analogy of political and economic systems and "blueprints" is helpful in understanding these notions and how they have influenced US foreign policy and the Vietnam War in particular. One interesting aspect is the discussion of morality as a separate entity. Although, it would be easier if a universal moral code reigned throughout history, nevertheless, morality itself, I believe, is a product of political and cultural systems.
The influence of Judeo-Christian morality in Western culture has been formulated in large part through economic and political movements. Regardless of religion, this set of moral codes has become the dominant paradigm of ethics in Western civilization. The belief that imperialism, capitalism, or any other politico-economical sphere can somehow be tamed through an "outside" moral order is questionable. In short, morality is inseparable from the social discourse it envelopes. As much as imperialism has shaped moral and ethical dictates, so too has morality shaped imperialism. The inclusion of morality and ethics into these political arenas only serves to perpetuate it. Interestingly, the contestation of such practices is equally "allowed," and to some degree, defined by these ideological demands.
Although it is true that these systems are theories in constant practice and transformation, one should bear in mind that morality has already entered the "blueprint." The inseparability of racism from imperialism should provide an example. That is- any seemingly natural or universal human trait is, in fact, ideologically bound. Morality is simply another category which is devised to uphold a specific power structure. Ironically, opposition to that morality historically results in another hierarchical form, with the reactionary movement in power and thus subject to further contestation .
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