Fact Check: Isolationism does not exist in any practical sense in American foreign policy.

Fact Check: "Isolationism does not exist in any practical sense in American foreign policy."

What We Know

Isolationism has been a recurring theme in American foreign policy, with roots tracing back to the presidency of George Washington. Washington advocated for a policy of neutrality, suggesting that the U.S. should avoid permanent alliances that do not serve its interests, focusing instead on domestic issues (source-1). This perspective was echoed during the early 20th century, particularly when President Woodrow Wilson initially promoted neutrality during World War I, famously running on the slogan "he kept us out of war" in the 1916 election (source-1).

The concept of isolationism is defined as a political philosophy that opposes involvement in foreign wars and political affairs, advocating for neutrality and non-entanglement in military alliances (source-2). Historically, isolationism has manifested in U.S. foreign policy decisions, particularly during the interwar period when the U.S. refused to join the League of Nations and focused on domestic economic issues instead (source-1).

Analysis

The claim that "isolationism does not exist in any practical sense in American foreign policy" is misleading. While it is true that the U.S. has engaged in various international conflicts and alliances, the historical context shows a significant isolationist sentiment influencing policy decisions at various times. For instance, the post-World War I era saw a strong isolationist movement, as evidenced by the election of Warren Harding, who campaigned on a platform of avoiding foreign entanglements and focusing on "normalcy" (source-1).

Moreover, the definition of isolationism itself encompasses a broader strategy of military and political non-interference, which has been a part of the American political discourse (source-2). The tension between isolationism and interventionism continues to shape U.S. foreign policy debates today, indicating that isolationist sentiments still hold relevance in contemporary discussions (source-7).

While some may argue that the U.S. has largely moved towards interventionism, it is essential to recognize that isolationism has not been entirely absent from American foreign policy and continues to influence public opinion and political decisions.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The assertion that isolationism does not exist in any practical sense in American foreign policy is false. Historical evidence demonstrates that isolationism has been a significant aspect of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the early 20th century and continues to influence contemporary debates. The existence of isolationist sentiments and policies at various points in American history contradicts the claim, highlighting the complexity of the U.S. approach to international relations.

Sources

1. Isolationism and U.S. Foreign Policy After World War I
2. Isolationism
3. Isolationism | Definition & Facts
4. What Is Isolationism? The History and Politics of an Often Maligned Foreign Policy Concept
5. Perspectives in American Foreign Policy: What Is Isolationism
6. Don't Look Now, but Isolationism Is Winning
7. Isolationism vs. Interventionism: America's Forever Foreign Policy Debate
8. Excerpt: Isolationism