Bridging the Atlantic Divide.

The article examines the notion of a transatlantic rift between the United States and Europe in the post-September 11 world. The author notes how U.S.-European differences on matters of policy and global strategy or governance are certainly nothing new. However, in recent months, many observers have concluded that the fundamental cultural and structural basis for a transatlantic alliance is eroding. Several analysts have publicly declared the notion that Americans and Europeans are growing apart, in particular Robert Kagan. However, for all the differences over policy in the 'war on terrorism,' the author highlights how American and European values and interests in the world remain highly similar. Although their tactics sometimes differ, Americans and Europeans broadly share the same democratic, liberal aspirations for their societies and for the rest of the world. The author emphasizes that the allies' differing attitudes toward power have not prevented them from using force together in the past and need not do so in the future.