Question

How does President Theodore Roosevelt's comment; "speak softly and carry a big stick," relate to the President’s powers as a diplomat and as commander in chief?
Do you agree with this approach? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Answer:

I do not agree with this approach but it is still important in today's world.

Explanation:

President Theodore Roosevelt's comments that "speak softly and carry a big stick" meant that diplomacy is an important tool but  having the ability or other means to force the opponent into submission is also important for the President as well as the country. The President's role of being a diplomat and a commander in chief provides the President the power to make these decisions as per the situation and requirements. The reason I do not agree with this is because countries who do not have a 'big stick' or a powerful army are pushed around on international stage and are pressured by countries with bigger armies into making decisions that they would not like to make. On the other hand, UN itself needs an army to implement its orders. Still, UN always first implements sanctions and diplomatic tools. Hence, I do not completely agree with this comment but I think it is still relevant in today's world.