Nature of neoconservatism

The adjective “neoconservative” seems to be often used as an indiscriminate pejorative in political debate. But neoconservatism has certain philosophical roots, politics and programs, which are explored in a fine article at Cato Unbound by C. Bradley Thompson. It summarizes the argument made in a book Thompson co-authored with Yaron Brook, Conservatism: The Obituary of an Idea, that neoconservatism is a blend of Platonic idealism and the kind of political and ethical pragmatism allegedly required to motivate and control the hoi polloi. The site is also publishing replies to Thompson’s piece.

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