American Prestige A Culture of Empire | Always at War x American Prestige
Jul 26, 2025
Daniel Bessner, a University of Washington professor and host of the American Prestige podcast, joins Courtney Rawlings and Alex Jordan to dissect the nuanced concept of 'imperialist realism.' They explore how American perceptions of military intervention have evolved alongside the complexities of U.S. foreign policy post-9/11. Amid lighthearted anecdotes, they delve into the cultural reflections of American hegemony in media, challenge narratives of militarism, and advocate for critical engagement with domestic and international policies.
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What is Imperialist Realism
- Imperialist realism is the belief that criticism of U.S. empire exists alongside resignation to its permanence.
- This creates a cynicism where people see the empire as unchangeable despite recognizing its harms.
Military Power Over Idealism
- Despite rhetoric about American ideals, U.S. policy focuses primarily on military power and material interests.
- The discourse about democracy vs autocracy has weakened, particularly after recent events like Gaza.
Patriotism vs. Humanism
- Americans often link patriotism with support for empire and military power.
- Bessner identifies as a humanist, focusing on changing his own nation rather than espousing nationalism.
