"Neo-cons" aren't new

Posted by Alan on June 25, 2004 at 07:42:04

As I read that article defining Neo-conservatism, it reminded me of President Theodore Roosevelt. His political philosophy fit this description to a tee.

Hisdoctrine of "Manifest Destiny" and trademark "Speak softly and carry a big stick" are perfectly compatible with neo-conservatism. Roosevelt was also a firm believer in using big government as the agent of social change, a concept that would place him in the socialy liberal camp.

There are probably many other examples of early American politicians who could be called neo-cons, so it's fair to say that this political philosophy really isn't very "neo" (new). "Neo-Conservative" is just a new label on an old idea.