Discussions about empire are carefully controlled and constructed. It's fine to talk about the Byzantine, Ottoman and British varieties. However, the subject of U.S. empire, when not ignored outright, is couched in euphemisms like the "free market" or "free trade." Other favorites are "national interest" and "national security." U.S. global intervention is framed in terms of altruism and good intentions. The costs of empire are borne by Americans, but the profits go to the Fortune 500.

Michael Parenti
Michael Parenti is one of this country's foremost independent political analysts. He has taught at major colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad. He is the author of numerous books including the classic "Democracy for the Few" and the highly acclaimed "The Assassination of Julius Caesar." His latest book is "Contrary Notions."