This book assesses in greater depth the Bush administration's claim to comprehend the purpose of historical progress. Developing a concept termed ';democratic vanguardism,' this study investigates the idea of liberal modernity, the role of the United States as a force for democracy, and the implications of using military intervention in the service of idealistic ends. It examines disputes among political theorists, public intellectuals, and elected statesmen that help to enrich our understanding of the United States' efforts under President Bush to bend history to its will.