Portrait of Hans J. Morgenthau by O. Donnandi.
May 22, 1987
Harvard University
Leading international relations theorist Stanley Hoffmann argues that the greatest danger to ethical thinking in international affairs is "disembodied idealism," i.e., attempts to pose ethical solutions to political problems without first coming to grips with states and their interests. Like Hans Morgenthau, he links ethics with political realism.
SEP 28, 2026 • Video
With the rise of cyber and hybrid warfare, what's been lost in ethical thinking about conflict? Access this "Ethics Empowered: Leadership in Practice" recording.
SEP 23, 2026 • Report
This report from the second CEF cohort provides an economic security framework for the U.S. and globally demonstrating accountability and democratic governance.
SEP 18, 2026 • Podcast
Casey Michel examines how concentrated wealth is reshaping American democracy and foreign policy, and the consequences when private interests take precedence over the public good.
