The United States has attempted to generate change in foreign countries by exporting liberal democratic institutions through military occupation and reconstruction. For every West Germany or Japan, there is a Cuba, Haiti, Somalia, or Vietnam. Coyne seeks to answer critical foreign policy questions by bringing an economic mindset. Within an economic context, a successful reconstruction entails establishing incentives that make citizens prefer liberal democratic order. Coyne examines mechanisms and institutions that contribute to success of reconstruction programs by creating incentives for sustained cooperation. He offers two alternatives to reconstruction programs that could serve as catalysts for social change: principled non-intervention and unilateral free trade. Although Coyne argues commitment to non-intervention and free trade may not lead to liberal democracies in conflict-torn countries, it could lay groundwork for global peace--Publisher's description.

Can liberal democracy be exported at gunpoint? -- From conflict to cooperation -- Why can't they all get along? -- Exporting conflict -- The pinnacle of U.S. imperialism : Japan and West Germany -- Fool's errands : Somalia and Haiti -- Post-9/11 imperialism : Afghanistan and Iraq -- Liberal means to liberal ends.