University ARTS1810 - International Relations, Conventions & Challenges Mind Map on The US Military: Funding and Reasoning, created by normantc1 on 18/05/2013.
Global Research, 2010, More than 50% of US Government Spending Goes to the Military, Available at: http://www.globalresearch.ca/more-than-50-of-us-government-spending-goes-to-the-military/18852, [Accessed 21 May 2013]
US Department of Defense, 2013, Active Duty Military Personnel by Service by Rank/Grade (February 2013), Available at: http://siadapp.dmdc.osd.mil/personnel/MILITARY/rg1302.pdf, [Accessed 21 May 2013]
In this case, we can assume that the priorities for the US in terms of funding would be the military. Why though? That is the issue here. It is most likely that the US is prioritizing the safety of the country's inhabitants, economy and security rather than other aspects.
Essential needs, services?
Annotations:
In terms of essential needs and services,
Hard Power
Annotations:
The military force is one of the main aspects of a country's 'hard power'.
Hard power can be defined as the militaristic and financial influence over other states. Hard power is what protects the country as well as allows it to thrive.
Copeland, D, 2010, Hard Power Vs. Soft Power, Available at: http://www.themarknews.com/articles/895-hard-power-vs-soft-power#.UZqj1ZxqPyQ, Accessed 21 May 2013
Global Research, 2007, The Worldwide Network of US Military Bases, Available at: http://www.globalresearch.ca/the-worldwide-network-of-us-military-bases/5564, [Accessed 21 May 2013]
Realism - Relative Gain
Annotations:
The US is a superpower within the world and continues to strive to be one.