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Doctrine
A political philosophy specific to a particular moment in history reflecting the historical and social ideologies of a nation-state or a particular group.
For example, in the 1990s, prior to the bombing of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, the American political philosophy regarding war reflected a post-Vietnam perspective. Under the philosophy, or doctrine, of General Colin Powell, the United States fought “short” wars, decisively, infrequently, and with paramount force. The events of 9/11 arguably produced a shift in both historical and social ideologies, altering the political doctrine of war. Political conflict and instability abroad became clear threats to homeland security, thereby shifting the political objective from one of dissolving conflicts quickly and forcefully to establishing governance abroad aligned with American interests. Under President ...