The Great Illusion: Chimeras of Isolationism and Realism in Post‐Iraq U.S. Foreign Policy 1

In light of the Bush Administration's failures in Iraq, some have foreseen a turn toward a new isolationism or realism in U.S. foreign policy. This article argues that such an ideological reorientation is unlikely. America's level of economic entwinement with others, and its role in maintaining strategic stability in certain regions, present formidable practical barriers to isolationism. Though realism might be a more plausible prospect, the nature of America's historical and ideological journey toward internationalism makes it difficult for a realist approach to gain lasting supremacy. Increased pragmatism, and reduced militarism and adventurism, are likely responses to harsh operational realities. Nevertheless, the core axiom of American strategic thought—the liberal universalist credo that all nations must eventually adopt a baseline of American values and practices for lasting international peace to be achieved—is embedded too widely across the political spectrum to be ousted without a major revolution in American political culture.