Tonight, we discussed empires: what is the meaning of empire? what type of empires are there? what are the problems related to them? and how do they end? The definition is not necessarily geographical or politically based, but something more abstract. Size, prestige and dominance are the key characteristics. So although the United States is not an empire in the geographical sense with global territories, it does have those 3 traits. Although you could argue that US military prescence across the globe makes it empirical. Having a solid sphere of influence as the United States does in its region could also define it as an empire. Then again, you could say that an empire is really just a large state - if that's your definition. I'll stop there, as that's a possible essay question.
But reading about how empires developed, you find that economic factors play a greater and greater role. The industrial revolution and an excess of capital, fuelled 19th century colonialism, as demand for resources became capitalist's priority. To answer the essay question - Is US an Empire? - then it would be important to consider US demand for resources - it's all about oil! It's a well known cry, but sadly it's very true.
Here is an article that gives some further information on US energy policy and the politics that drive it.
http://www.opendemocracy.net/conflict-americanpower/oil_2887.jsp
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