] "But nowadays, if you consult the writings of the
] conservative and neoconservative penseurs, you will see
] that they are beginning to relish that very word.
] "Empire? Sure! Why not?""

Now, I've heard this twice. That the "conservatives" are actually using the word "Empire." This seems to be a meme. Both times I've heard it from people on the left. What do they mean by "conservatives." Exactly who are they talking about and how significant are they? I want a reference for this. I imagine that these references are always vauge so as to make this seem more significant then it is. Its the sort of thing you repeat without thinking about.

"Did YOU hear that CONSERVATIVES are now using the word EMPIRE in reference to the U.S.??"

"Gosh!"

Imperialism - Superpower dominance, malignant and benign. By Christopher Hitchens