Over almost three decades, The National Interest, founded in 1985 by Irving Kristol and Owen Harries, has displayed a remarkable consistency in its approach to foreign policy. It is not, as the inaugural statement declared, about world affairs. It is about American interests. It is guided by the belief that nothing will enhance those interests as effectively as the approach to foreign affairs commonly known as realism—a school of thought traditionally associated with such thinkers and statesmen as Disraeli, Bismarck, and Henry Kissinger. Though the shape of international politics has changed considerably in the past few decades, the magazine’s fundamental tenets have not. Instead, they have proven enduring and, indeed, appear to be enjoying something of a popular renaissance.

The Center for the National Interest is a non-partisan public policy institution established by former President Richard Nixon.  Its current programs focus on energy security and climate change, immigration and national security, and U.S. relations with China, Japan, Mexico, and Russia.  The Center also publishes the bimonthly foreign affairs magazine The National Interest.  The Center is supported by foundation, corporate and individual donors as well as by an endowment.

This item is part of JSTOR collection
For terms and use, please refer to our Terms and Conditions
The National Interest © 1990 Center for the National Interest
Request Permissions