10 Points of note: Asia and the Nixon Doctrine

Abstract

Although the President first enunciated the “Nixon Doctrine” informally on Guam in July 1969, the precise meaning of that doctrine has remained ambiguous ever since. Transcripts of this initial briefing exist, but have never been published and cannot be quoted directly. As Administration supporters explain it, such ambiguity is deliberate and essential; any greater spelling out of American intentions would place the United States in a straight-jacket and prevent it from pursuing a flexible and responsive diplomacy in the future. As some critics see it, the doctrine is little more than a political accordian; the Administration's traveling minstrels, playing by ear, can stretch it out or squeeze it tight depending on their particular audience.

Notes

On the deliberate ambiguity of the doctrine, see, for example, Joseph C. Harsch, Christian Science Monitor, August 29–31 (Weekend Issue), 1970. The accordian metaphor was used by spokesmen for the Democratic Party early in 1970. The most important Presidential statements dealing with the Nixon Doctrine occurred in speeches on July 25 and November 3, 1969, and January 22 and February 18, 1970.