The military-industrial complex and its mpact on US foregin policy in the post-Cold War era

This thesis examines how the Military-Industrial Complex (MIC) has influenced United States foreign policy in the post-Cold War era, arguing that economic incentives and corporate interests have increasingly shaped decisions to engage in military conflicts. Through an analysis of major U.S. interventions, including the Gulf War, the War in Afghanistan, Syria, and the ongoing Ukraine conflict, the research demonstrates how defense contractors, lobbying networks, and the revolving door between government and industry have driven policy outcomes. The study investigates the relationship between congressional behavior and war-related economic gain, focusing specifically on patterns of lobbying surrounding key foreign policy events and defense spending legislation. Using government reports, financial disclosures, and reputable journalistic investigations, this thesis evaluates whether profit motives influenced voting behavior beyond traditional partisan lines. The findings support the hypothesis that the MIC has played a decisive role in shaping U.S. interventionism, often prioritizing economic returns and corporate growth over national security strategy and diplomatic alternatives. Ultimately, this work highlights the implications for democratic accountability and global stability, and calls for greater transparency and structural reform to reduce conflict of interest within U.S. foreign policy decision-making.