Why Many Americans Lean Towards Isolationism

Isolationism, the policy of avoiding entanglement in international affairs, is a concept often associated with America. This article explores why the lean towards isolationism among many Americans is not as far-fetched as one might believe, and examines the underlying reasons for this sentiment.

The Feasibility of Isolationism

For many Americans, isolationism seems like a plausible policy. While the United States is a formidable naval power, it is not heavily reliant on maritime commerce. Its agricultural output is sufficient to sustain the nation. This makes an isolationist policy appear more feasible than it might for other countries.

However, an isolationist approach would be far more inconvenient than many Americans admit. The assumption that isolationism would be a seamless transition is misguided. The U.S. has been a global superpower for decades, and such a shift would require significant restructuring of many industries and social norms.

Addressing Economic Concerns

A major driver of isolationist sentiment is the frustration with the U.S. being taken advantage of by other nations. The desire to finish border walls underscores this frustration. Many Americans believe that limiting immigration and reducing dependence on other countries can improve the nation's economic security.

There is also a growing belief that the U.S. needs to reduce its welfare recipients and instead focus on self-sufficiency. The argument is that by supporting local citizens directly, the nation can ensure more tangible benefits, rather than sending aid to distant nations.

The Impact of Government Spending

The perception that the U.S. government is spending money inappropriately is another factor driving isolationism. It is often perceived that the government is more focused on supporting foreign causes, ostensibly as part of a national strategy, at the expense of the American people.

For instance, the decision to fund a Pakistani gender equality program, despite the nation's historical animosity towards the U.S., is seen as a misuse of resources. This kind of spending, which members of Congress do not fully consider in terms of domestic benefits, is deeply resented by many Americans.

Realpolitik in Foreign Policy

The reality is that the U.S. often engages in international affairs on its own terms, not necessarily for the greater good of the world. The Cold War era, when the U.S. was a dominant global power, has passed. Since then, the nation's influence has waned.

However, isolationism is not the goal. The U.S. is more interested in positioning itself to dominate the rest of the world rather than spreading democracy. This is a pragmatic approach, driven by a sense of self-interest and realpolitik.

Isolationism is not a simple or easy policy in practice. It requires a significant shift in prioritization and the dismantling of many existing economic and social structures. However, the dissatisfaction with current foreign policies and the belief that the U.S. can manage its own affairs more effectively without being entangled in global affairs are factors that continue to drive the sentiment towards isolationism.