Final answer:
The cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy during the Carter administration was a commitment to human rights, leading to distinct policy shifts and efforts like the Camp David Accords, while facing intense criticism and scrutiny domestically and internationally.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy during the Carter administration was a commitment to human rights. President Carter believed that American foreign policy should be rooted in moral principles, which led to a distinguishable shift from previous strategies during the Cold War. Under his leadership, notable efforts were made towards advancing human rights, including improving relations with China, ending military support to Nicaraguan dictator Anastasio Somoza, and formulating the Camp David Accords which resulted in a peace treaty between Egypt and Israel.
Despite these initiatives, Carter faced criticism both domestically and internationally. Critics argued that some actions, such as Carter's engagement with the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), seemed to undermine U.S. support for Israel amidst the energy crisis. The intense scrutiny fell on Carter's every decision, with allegations of supporting terrorist organizations and failing to take decisive action against groups like the PLO.
In contrast, Carter's supporters appreciated his dedication to peace and commitment to aligning U.S. foreign policy with ethical standards, ultimately leading to his administration's unique place in Cold War history. Despite ideological and policy differences, Carter's focus on arms reduction, seen in the negotiation of SALT II, echoed broader Cold War themes around nuclear proliferation, albeit with a diplomatic approach grounded in idealism.