The Institute for the Study of Diplomacy launched its 2020-2021 Distinguished Practitioners Lecture Series on September 16, 2020, with Robert B. Zoellick on his new book, America in the World: A History of U.S. Diplomacy and Foreign Policy (Twelve Books, 2020).
The book covers over 200 years of American foreign policy through a series of vignettes on a range of policymakers’ critical contributions to what Zoellick calls the five traditions of U.S. diplomacy: the North American Base; Trade, Transnationalism, and Technology; Alliances and Order; Public and Congressional Support; and, America’s Purpose. Using examples drawn from history, Zoellick wove together the contributions of these policymakers, some well known and others more obscure, and brought the lessons to the present day.
An avowed pragmatic idealist, Zoellick stressed the critical need for a nuanced yet outcome-focused approach to policy and our engagement with the world, and set forth how future administrations could effectively manage this going forward. The conversation was joined by John R. McNeill, Georgetown University Professor of History, and Joel Hellman, Dean of the Walsh School of Foreign Service.
On October 7th ISD’s podcast “Diplomatic Immunity: Frank and Candid Conversations about Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs,” will feature a conversation with Zoellick on applied history, hosted by Dr. Kelly McFarland, ISD’s Director of Programs and Research.
Best wishes and Be safe,
Barbara K. Bodine