Diplomacy Author: Henry Kissinger | Language: English | ISBN:
067165991X | Format: PDF
Diplomacy Description
In this brilliant, controversial, and monumental book, former Secretary-of-State Henry Kissinger explains, based on his own experience, what diplomacy is, and why, historically, Americans, from our presidents down to the man in the street, have always distrusted the whole idea. 30 photos. 6 maps. Index.
- Hardcover: 912 pages
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster; First Edition edition (April 18, 1994)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 067165991X
- ISBN-13: 978-0671659912
- Product Dimensions: 1.8 x 6.5 x 9.5 inches
- Shipping Weight: 2.9 pounds
Dr. Kissinger has written a marvelous book that takes a reader on an enlightening path through history. Beginning with the Peace of Westphalia (the advent of international relations), the author uses his keen sense of perception to analyze the actions of world leaders and explain how those actions shaped the further development of the international system. He masterfully shows how the experiences of previous generations influenced the diplomacy of the current generation.
The most interesting part of the book is when Dr. Kissinger details the international system since the United States entered into global politics. He argues that the unique American political development correlated into a diplomatic style unlike the world had ever seen. American diplomacy was based upon democratic ideals that rejected states acting for individual gain. Instead Americans believed that the expansion of democratic ideals to all people would result in a natural state of harmony among nations. With this basis, Kissinger outlines 20th century history showing how American idealism helped and hindered in different situations.
Dr. Kissinger draws extensively on his personal experience in the field, providing a more complete picture for the reader. The author's style is easy to read and captivating without excessive detail and theory. A must read for any serious student of international politics and history, and an enlightening read for others with an interest in global relations.
By Matthew D. Carr
As much as I despise the policies and actions of Henry Kissinger, I must confess that I found this book to be a very well thought out look at the major historical events of the past century. Kissinger's central premise seems to be that the United States has swung back and forth between Wilsonian Idealism and a more pragmatic/Realpolitik perspective in which a nation is primarily responsible for looking out for its own best interests. While I deplore the lack of conscience or justice that Kissinger stands for, I found the book very helpful in understanding his position and in looking at world events through that particular lense. Certainly, he makes many valid and interesting points in addressing the relative pro's and con's of each approach. Also, the book is very readable - ideas are expressed clearly and it kept my interest throughout.
If you're interested in understanding the Realpolitik logic that has led to so many atrocities around the world, and how one might intellectually justify these actions, this book is an invaluable resource. Ultimately, whether you agree with Kissinger or not, I think it's important to understand him. The man is not simply "evil" or "insane" and the ideas that he represents are central to current U.S. policies around the world.
Important stuff, well articulated.
By GLBT
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