If most of those who took part in this one-dimensional debate were honest with themselves, they would admit that they do not in principle believe that the United States can do any good overseas for anyone but the American government, its armed forces, or privileged American elites.

Summary

The quote suggests that in a one-sided debate about the involvement of the United States overseas, many individuals would secretly admit that they believe the U.S. only benefits its own government, military, and privileged elites, rather than genuinely helping others. It implies that these people doubt the intentions and efficacy of American interventions, seeing them as self-serving actions. The quote challenges the belief in the inherent benevolence of U.S. actions abroad, highlighting the skepticism that some may hold towards the country's foreign policies.

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