About
Francis Fukuyama is an American political scientist, political economist, and international relations scholar. He is best known for his book *The End of History and the Last Man*, which proposed that the spread of liberal democracy and free-market capitalism could represent the culmination of human sociocultural evolution and the final form of government. His work has generated considerable debate and discussion among scholars and policymakers. He continues to contribute to the field of political thought through his research and writing.
Career Timeline
The End of History Essay
Fukuyama published his influential essay "The End of History?" in The National Interest, proposing liberal democracy as humanity's final form of government. The provocative thesis generated immediate academic and public debate.
Book Published, Global Fame
Fukuyama expanded his thesis into the bestselling book "The End of History and the Last Man," becoming an internationally recognized intellectual. The book's success established him as one of the most influential political theorists of his era.
Post-9/11 Thesis Challenged
The September 11 attacks and subsequent conflicts challenged Fukuyama's optimistic thesis, though he remained a prominent voice. He began refining his views while maintaining his academic stature and public profile.
Breaks with Neoconservatives
Fukuyama publicly broke with neoconservatism over the Iraq War, writing "America at the Crossroads." His willingness to revise his views and critique former allies generated significant attention and respect.
Political Order Series Published
Fukuyama completed his two-volume series on political order and decay, cementing his reputation as a major political scientist. The comprehensive work demonstrated his continued intellectual relevance and evolution.
Identity Published
His book "Identity: The Demand for Dignity and the Politics of Resentment" addressed contemporary political polarization. Fukuyama remained a sought-after commentator on democracy's challenges in the Trump era.
Senior Scholar and Commentator
Fukuyama remains a prominent political scientist and public intellectual, regularly contributing to policy debates and scholarly discourse. He is well-known in academic, policy, and educated circles worldwide, though not a mainstream household name, and continues to refine his influential theories.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026