A Very Proud Nation: Nationalism in American Foreign Policy

Contrary to popularly espoused views in media and policy circles, the underpinnings of US foreign policy find basis not only in the country’s liberal value system, but also in a deeply-held and largely unique concept of nationalism. In fact, moral ideals are often a purported justification for US foreign policy. Another important driver is the country’s national pride. Consideration of US foreign policy—particularly since the Cold War—makes clear that US nationalism has had a prominent role in nation’s policymaking. This article discusses US nationalism, as well as three obstacles that make it difficult to detect the notable influence America’s national pride has on the country’s foreign policy.