An isolationist is someone who believes in limiting a nation’s involvement in international affairs and focusing primarily on its own interests and concerns. This ideology advocates for a policy of non-interference in the political, economic, and military affairs of other countries, often preferring to avoid alliances, treaties, and foreign conflicts. Historically, isolationism has been associated with nations that prioritize their sovereignty and independence over global cooperation. Isolationists argue that staying out of international disputes and avoiding entanglements in foreign wars will help maintain national stability and security. However, critics of isolationism contend that it can lead to missed opportunities for trade, cooperation, and diplomacy, and may leave a country vulnerable to global threats. While isolationism can promote self-sufficiency and national autonomy, it can also contribute to a sense of national detachment from global issues, which in turn may limit a nation’s influence in international negotiations. In times of global conflict or economic interdependence, isolationism can become a contentious and divisive issue. Despite this, some argue that isolationism remains a valid approach for countries wishing to maintain control over their own policies without external influence.
Sample Sentences
- The country adopted an isolationist policy, refusing to participate in the international peace talks.
- The isolationist stance was popular among the citizens who believed that staying out of foreign conflicts was essential for national safety.
- His isolationist views were criticized by those who believed in global cooperation and diplomacy.
- The isolationist movement gained traction during the period of economic recession, when many felt the country should focus on internal recovery.
- The president’s isolationist approach to foreign policy led to the withdrawal of troops from overseas bases.
- Critics of the isolationist policies argued that ignoring global affairs would harm the nation’s long-term interests.
- As an isolationist, she opposed any form of military intervention in conflicts that did not directly affect her country.
- The isolationist attitude led to a reduction in foreign aid and trade agreements with neighboring countries.
- Isolationism was seen as an alternative to globalization, which many felt threatened the country’s traditions and way of life.
- In the face of rising global tensions, the isolationist government believed that non-intervention was the best course of action.
Synonyms for “Isolationist”
- Non-interventionist
- Protectionist
- Self-sufficient
- Sovereigntist
- Autarkist
- Neutralist
- Nationalist (in some contexts)
- Insular
- Anti-globalist
- Detached
Antonyms for “Isolationist”
- Globalist
- Internationalist
- Interventionist
- Cosmopolitan
- Diplomatic
- Multilateralist
- Global citizen
- Expansionist
- Cooperative
- Allied
Related Words and Expressions
Related Words:
- Isolationism
- Non-intervention
- Nationalism
- Sovereignty
- Protectionism
- Autarky
- Neutrality
- Self-reliance
- Insularity
- Detachment
Phrasal Verbs:
- Pull back (to retreat from international involvement)
- Stay out (to avoid engaging in foreign affairs or conflicts)
- Opt out (to choose not to participate in international agreements or alliances)
- Close ranks (to focus on national unity, ignoring external concerns)
- Keep to oneself (to avoid involvement in external issues, focusing solely on internal matters)
Idiomatic Expressions:
- Keep one’s nose out of (to refrain from interfering in other countries’ affairs)
- Draw a line (to set clear boundaries between national concerns and foreign involvement)
- Mind one’s own business (to focus on one’s own affairs, often used in the context of isolationism)
- Live and let live (a principle sometimes associated with isolationism, implying non-interference)
- Head in the sand (a criticism of isolationism, suggesting that ignoring global issues can be a form of denial)
