[NapkinUser]

Hat tip to this from the Christian Science Monitor.

[TSchmereL]

I disagree that Neoconservatives promote the development of an American empire.

[Terpfen]

"Neoconservative" is a meaningless label. I would also argue that there are very few, if any, who believe America is, let alone should be, an empire.

Just because Pat Buchanan says something doesn't mean it's true.

[TSchmereL]

Isolationists may be wary of US involvement in the United Nations, oppose international law, alliances, and agreements, and desire to preserve what they see as America's national identity and character.

However, just because you are wary of US involvement in the United Nations, oppose international law, alliances, and agreements, and desire to preserve what you see as America's national identity and character . . . it does not make you an Isolationist.

[TSchmereL]

I also disagree that Neoconservatives merely seek to democratize the Arab world, but rather democratization in conjunction with the rule of law to create a more liberal society. Democratization is only one element. Democratization alone is mob rule. But some democratic institutions are necessary for a functioning modern liberal government.

[TSchmereL]

Support for trade practices that insulate American workers from global competition is classic Isolationism, not that some protection isn't a good thing if global competition is playing unfairly.

[johnny7]

It's set up like a CNN poll... meaning it's bullsh_t.

[lonestar67]

Good post but I think CSM misleads.

Reagan was more of a realist than a neo con. I really believe the term neo conservative has been invented by the media to cover the fact that democrats have not had a foreign policy since the end of the Vietnam war.

I think the competing streams of thought are:

post colonialist: capitalism is the root of all evil-- globalization bad
realist: strategic thinking should exceed idealism
neo- conservative: America is a global ideal reality that should be defended


Neo cons are right. America is now a post sovereign concept. Humanity increasingly defines itself in terms of what America represents-- freedom, democracy and equality. The massive immigration globally to the United States is but a small testament to the awesome power of this nation as a signifier. The debate over American control is over. We are the world.

[ex-snook]

Isolationism is misplaced here. There is a difference between 'isolationist' and 'busy body'. Paleos, like Pat, are for fighting for the interests of the USA such as taking out bin Laden, al-Qaeda and anyone else that attacks our land. They are not for being the world's policeman to advance the interests of England, Formosa, Ireland, Israel, Kosovo, Kuwait, Korea, et al who are engaged in ancient conflicts. As Paleo Washington put it - no entangling alliances. Pat is right for America. Now time for the superbowl.