Final answer:
America's ideals, such as freedom and democracy, influence the nation's foreign policies. However, national interests also play a role in shaping American foreign policy decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
America's ideals play a significant role in shaping the country's foreign policies. The ideals of freedom, democracy, human rights, and equality often guide the United States in its interactions with other nations. For example, the promotion of democracy and human rights has been a central aspect of American foreign policy, leading to interventions in countries like Iraq and Afghanistan.
However, American foreign policy is also influenced by national interests. National security, economic considerations, and strategic alliances are important factors that shape the nation's foreign policy decisions. In certain situations, national interests may take precedence over idealistic goals.
Whether American foreign policy should be guided by ideals or determined by national interests is a complex question with no easy answer. It requires a careful balance between pursuing the ideals that define the nation and safeguarding its own interests and security.