In "Earning the Rockies," Robert D. Kaplan explores the influence of geography on America's global role. He emphasizes the idea of isolation versus intervention, suggesting that nations prefer to be left undisturbed, but if provoked, they will actively respond to protect their interests. This reflects a fundamental principle in international relations about the balance between autonomy and external threats. Kaplan's quote, "Leave us alone and we'll leave you alone, or else we will hunt you down wherever you are," highlights the tension between peace and conflict. It underscores the willingness of nations to defend themselves aggressively when necessary, presenting a stark choice of coexistence or confrontation in global affairs.

In "Earning the Rockies," Robert D. Kaplan explores the influence of geography on America's global role. He emphasizes the idea of isolation versus intervention, suggesting that nations prefer to be left undisturbed, but if provoked, they will actively respond to protect their interests. This reflects a fundamental principle in international relations about the balance between autonomy and external threats.

Kaplan's quote, "Leave us alone and we'll leave you alone, or else we will hunt you down wherever you are," highlights the tension between peace and conflict. It underscores the willingness of nations to defend themselves aggressively when necessary, presenting a stark choice of coexistence or confrontation in global affairs.