Imperial Parenting: Early Influences on Foreign Policy Views

• In Event: Advances in Cultural Criminology: Socialization, Youth, and Criminalization

Abstract

Despite widespread dissatisfaction with conventional politics, a significant portion of the U.S. populace continues to endorse imperialistic state actions. Indicators such as declining trust in institutions and heightened social movements suggest a legitimacy crisis. However, alongside populist calls to reform Washington, substantial public backing remains for unlawful and oppressive state behaviors. Domestically, the criminal justice system disproportionately targets marginalized groups, including the poor, African Americans, and immigrants. Surveillance and repression persist. Internationally, U.S. foreign policy intervenes in other nations, perceives geopolitical competitors as security threats, and supports the prolonged oppression of Palestinians by Israel. While these actions concern many, there is a shocking level of public acceptance that is not solely due to propaganda or denial of imperialism. Drawing on Jan Rehmann's synthesis of ideology-theory and ideology-critique, alongside psychoanalytic concepts, it is posited that early socialization, especially parenting, inculcates ideological frameworks and false consciousness. This early influence fosters adult adherence to nationalism and imperialism. Primary socialization agents—parents, family, friends, neighbors—play pivotal roles in shaping ideologies, leading individuals to perceive right-wing and chauvinistic rhetoric as democratic and just. Thus, support for U.S. imperialism is deeply rooted in familial and social upbringing, suggesting that imperial acceptance begins in the home.

Authors

• Josh Klein, Iona University

• Daniel Patten, Purdue University - Fort Wayne