Political Theory Commentary

Giving Realists a Bad Name

The Chen incident demonstrates that President Obama's stumbling China policy is anything but realist.

Egypt's Muddy Waters

The Muslim Brotherhood's decision to nominate a presidential candidate throws Egyptian politics—and the Brotherhood itself—into uncharted territory.

How to Take Polls on Foreign Policy

American voters are often accused of prioritizing domestic policy over overseas concerns. A leading pollster weighs in.

Predicting Romney's Foreign Policy

What we can surmise about the degree of overseas adventurism a President Romney would likely enact.

Putin 4.0: Tough Times Ahead

Putin's next term will be dedicated to circling the wagons, not reform. He faces a hard road.

Satan and American Exceptionalism

What Santorum's Satan comments reveal about his flawed conception of America—and how they link him to the liberal interventionists.

Understanding America's Fall

U.S. decline may be inevitable. But that doesn't mean there's nothing Washington can do about it.

Kaplan and Mearsheimer: The Power of Realism

Robert Kaplan's new piece on John Mearsheimer is a testament to realism and a manifesto on lively political discourse.

2011: Year of the Pragmatists?

Merriam-Webster named "pragmatic" its Top Word for 2011. Why the dictionary got it wrong.

Overhauling U.S. Policy in the Middle East

The balance of power has changed. Realpolitik—not Islam—will rule the Middle East. Washington must react accordingly.

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May 26, 2012