With the demise of the USSR, the U.S. became the world’s sole super-power—at once the de facto global leader and a hegemon. Both roles often induce hubris, the excessive pride and ambition that usually lead to the downfall of a hero in a classical tragedy.

Nations want the U.S.’s strength when they need its help, but they don’t want the U.S. to ignore their advice and warnings. They want a “tethered hegemon.” On the other hand, the hegemon, under the illusion that might makes right, expects humble deference from other nations. But over the last 6 or 7 years the world has learned that a hegemon cannot be tethered, and the U.S. has learned that its power does not guarantee the acceptance of its influence.