In his book "The Return of Marco Polo's World," Robert D. Kaplan critiques the approach of foreign policy that is primarily motivated by the principle of "Never Again!" This mindset tends to overlook the constraints imposed by available resources and the limits of practical action. While World War II had significant moral implications, such as saving a portion of European Jewry, its main objective was to restore a balance of power in Europe and Asia as deemed acceptable by the United States, following the upheaval caused by the Axis powers.

Kaplan argues that prioritizing ideals over strategic interests can lead to misguided foreign policy decisions. The emphasis on moral imperatives might hinder pragmatic responses to international crises, as it tends to neglect the realities of geopolitical dynamics and resource allocation. Understanding history's actual motives, such as the balance of power achieved post-World War II, is essential for formulating effective strategies in contemporary global politics.