The Threat
Today's world is a dangerous place. Our security is at risk from terrorists, belligerent states, and the proliferation of weapons that can cause unimaginable, massive destruction. We are also threatened by less obvious foes such as pandemic disease, weak and corrupt governments, and the spread of anti-Americanism.
For years, Americans have been taught that threats can be met through the simple application of military might alone. Military power will always have a role to play in keeping Americans safe, deterring wars, and protecting the weak from genocide and abuse. But today's threats require a broader array of solutions. Our military can do little about rising sea levels - but will be forced to act to prevent the resource wars that such climate change is already provoking. Reducing the attraction of violent terrorist ideologies requires development, education, and the funding of more attractive ideas. And we need deeper thinking about how to prevent failing countries from becoming terrorist havens, and preventing the spread of nuclear weapons.
We need new progressive leaders who take seriously the threats of the 21st Century. We need leaders prepared to articulate and address today's security challenges. And we need moral leaders who understand that the promise of American values is one of our greatest assets in meeting threats abroad. Building these leaders is the job of the Truman National Security Project Educational Institute.
