BLUF: The pursuit of empire threatens liberty at home due to its fundamental characteristics like foreign influence, standing armies, higher taxes, and centralized power in the hands of a few.
The article discusses how the growth of empire undermines the constitutional system and leads to a loss of liberty. It quotes George Washington’s warning about the dangers of foreign influence, advising a neutral stance in foreign affairs. However, the US has failed to follow this advice and has become a global empire imposing its will on the world. Benjamin Franklin and John Dickinson also warned about the pitfalls of pursuing empire. Patrick Henry feared that consolidation of power in a strong central government would lead to empire and the destruction of liberties. He emphasized the dangers of standing armies, which encourage tyranny at home. Maintaining an empire requires perpetual warfare, which consolidates power in the executive branch and undermines individual liberty. James Madison warned that war not only leads to the growth of armies, debts, and taxes, but also concentrates power in the hands of a few. Ultimately, the quest for empire poses a threat to freedom.