Progressive realism is an American foreign policy paradigm largely made popular by Robert Wright in 2006[1] which focuses on producing measurable results in pursuit of widely supported goals.[2] It supports stronger international institutions, free trade, and US national interests.[2] Progressive realists' beliefs stand in stark contrast to those of neoconservatives; unlike neoconservatives, progressive realists highlight the importance of strong participation in the United Nations and acquiescence to international law.[3] They feel that economic interdependence, the environment and global security makes international governance serve national interest.[3][4] The policy emphasizes the need to convert "hard" military power and "soft" attractive power into "smart" power.[5]
Foreign relations of the United States