neoconservative

Neoconservative is a political ideology associated with the United States that originated in the late 1960s among former liberal intellectuals who adopted conservative positions on foreign policy and national security. It favors an assertive, interventionist foreign policy, American global leadership, democracy promotion, and clear moral distinctions in international affairs. Domestically, it aligns with free-market economics and a strong defense posture, supporting the use of state power to secure liberal-democratic outcomes.

Origins and figures: Irving Kristol, often called the father of neoconservatism, helped launch the movement along with Norman Podhoretz, Paul Wolfowitz, Richard Perle, Robert Kagan, and William Kristol. It drew on influence from Leo Strauss and from liberals who argued that liberal internationalism failed to confront totalitarian threats. The movement gained prominence in the 1990s and 2000s as proponents argued for a robust, sometimes unilateral, foreign policy.

Foreign policy: core ideas include democracy promotion, human rights, and a strong national defense; support for preventive action and regime change under certain conditions; emphasis on American leadership and security guarantees; close alignment with Israel and a willingness to use military power to shape international outcomes, as seen in the post–Cold War era and the Iraq War.

Criticism: neoconservatism has been criticized for hawkish militarism, interventionism, and for overstating threats; detractors argue it can undermine multilateralism and legitimate international norms. Critics say it contributed to wars that were poorly justified or executed.

Legacy: since the early 2000s the label is debated; some view neoconservatism as a distinct influence on Republican foreign policy, while others regard it as a historical tendency that waned after the Iraq War. It remains a reference point in discussions of U.S. foreign policy and nationalism.