Imperial Delusions

by Carl Boggs

Published 16 December 2004
mil*i*ta*rism, n, A military state or condition; reliance on military force in administering government. A characteristic of regimes like the Soviet Union or communist China, militarism is rarely associated with American society and government. Rather, Americans see their nation as the peaceful mediator, intervening in world affairs only to "make the world safe for democracy". The uncomfortable reality, however, scarcely fits this kind of fanciful mythology. In this hard-hitting critique, Carl Boggs argues that the United States is dominated by a new militarism, one that has become more potent and menacing since 9/11. He skillfully explores the origins and development of this new militarism and shows its devastating effects on American society and foreign policy. As America expands its influence, Imperial Delusions demonstrates how Americans have become addicted to war-allowing a military culture to control their interactions with each other and the world.