In "The Age of Reagan: The Conservative Counterrevolution: 1980-1989," author Steven F. Hayward examines the political landscape of Reagan's presidency and the broader conservative movement during that period. A notable aspect of Reagan's approach was his skepticism about détente, the policy aimed at easing tensions with the Soviet Union. He famously likened détente to a farmer's relationship with a turkey, suggesting that while things may seem calm at first, there is an inevitable end that could be disastrous.

Reagan's quip reflects his belief that détente was misleadingly peaceful, as it masked the underlying threats posed by the Soviet Union. His perspective contributed to a more assertive U.S. foreign policy during his administration, emphasizing a hardline stance against communism. By framing the relationship as ultimately adversarial, Reagan positioned himself as a defender of freedom and democracy, which shaped both his rhetoric and policy decisions throughout his presidency.