All things in time come to an end. The question on my mind here is does Obama legacy become the stewardship of the last gasps of empire/pax americana or is there something else to be gained. Has the developed world reached a point where by it can in fact let go of the need for hegemonic leadership.

Is it possible for we in the developed world to let go. Are we secure enough in our own position. Can we share the load. Can we true lead by example and encouraging developing nations in a process of self determination rather than a desire the make them in our own image. After all hegemonic rule tries to homogenise rather than accept differences.

Can US weariness be used to reinvigorate and re purpose institutions such as the UN into being more engaged and workable vehicles through which all contribute rather than just be the headmaster's office to which the naughty boys get sent for admonishing.

In doing so though we all must learn to live with the process and outcomes of a self determined world. There will always continue to conflict. Questions;

In try to impose a doctrine from outside do we make it worse?

Can you "fix" a country or a culture from the outside?

The US was essential given the reigns of world leadership by Britain who paid for WW 2 through defence of right and in doing so then in defence of empire giving up many of its military bases to the US along with all the gold in the Bank of England and some +60 plus years of further repayments under lend lease. After all under Teddy Roosevelt the US had always seen itself as a contender to the leadership role.

Well they got it and they've had it for some time now so do we just wait for the next great brother leader to arise to ultimately replace the US. If so who?

The only potential contenders look like being from the other side of the ideological fence.

So should world leadership now continue under the doctrine of "Speak softly and carry a big stick" or can we now begin the process of power sharing and actually living with each other on slightly more equal if not equal terms in a less interventionist way.

After all its not just the Far East or the Middle East that one should look to or be concerned about even Europe and the European Parliament are see a rising tide of nationalism even if a a simple protest against the enforcing of outside influence and a desire to homogenise.

So is it really a question of more of the same or have we all grown up enough to make institutions like the UN really work or will such remain as useless as things like the Arab League where interests of the few and not the people are in fact protected.

Do think for a minute that I am professing that we should all link hands around the global campfire and sing Kumaya my lord but rather "VIVA LA DIFFERENCE".