A Conservative's View (albeit not my own)

In the March 2004 issue of the American Conservative Magazine, pundit Pat Buchanan wrote an article called "No end to War". In it he details what he sees as the danger of the neocons leading American down a route that would embroil it in endless conflict and ultimately cost it its power. He argues that US ties to Israel, misplaced liberal ideals with a militant twist, and an abandonment of US restraint will end up in defeat.
"The long retreat of American empire has begun" writes Buchanan. I feel this is an interesting statement coming from a man like him regarding the current adminstration's policies. It raises two questions. First, if America is an empire, is its current extension the beginning of the end? Second, are we willing to relinquish our status as the global power/empire?
I think the first answer is problematic. The current situation could help or hinder America's as an empire. In the short run it may end giving it greater power and influence in the Middle East. However we are already seeing the problem of America already becoming over extended with its incursion in Iraq. The question of North Korea and Iran looms heavy but the only recourse we have is through the UN which may in fact be a good thing. If a real threat did present itself (as they sometimes do even tough those of us on the left wish we could wish them away like a bad dream), America as an empire would be hard pressed to do anything without taking drastic measures such as a draft.
The second answer is one that deserves close attention. Buchanan is clearly of the mindset that we should not give up our status as an empire because it ultimately benefits America. On a basic level I agree with him. While it may seem immoral, I would rather the US be the main power broker. I do feel that being an empire and being somewhat morally decent are not incompatible. It would be naive to think that the US empire could create a better world, however it could do some good in areas such as the Sudan or in promoting better business practices in the World Bank and WTO.
Anyhow have a good weekend. Here is a link to the article.

http://www.amconmag.com/3_1_04/print/coverprint.html