Protectionism refers to the economic policy of protecting domestic industries and businesses from competition from foreign imports. Some synonyms for protectionist include nationalist, isolationist, mercantilist, xenophobe, and anti-globalist. Nationalist relates to the promotion of the interests of one's own country above all others. Isolationist refers to a foreign policy whereby a nation seeks to avoid foreign alliances, entanglements, and interactions. Mercantilist is a theory of economic policy that centers on promoting exports, especially by way of trade barriers. Xenophobe pertains to an individual who dislikes or fears people from other cultures. Finally, anti-globalist refers to a person who opposes the global political, economic, and cultural links that exist as a result of globalization.