Exploring ancient Greek concepts of human motivation, this book presents a novel theory of politics and international relations. It delves into how these timeless ideas can inform contemporary political dynamics and interactions between nations, offering fresh insights into the motivations driving political behavior and decision-making on the global stage.
Is it possible to advocate ethical policies to preserve national security? Contrary to some beliefs, Richard Ned Lebow demonstrates that ethics are conducive to the pursuit of national interests. Reinterpreting the writings of key figures in the history of "realpolitik", he argues that national interests are framed in the language of justice, and indicates the dangers arising from the unilateral exercise of American power in the post-Cold War world.
The evolution of self-interest in the United States is examined, highlighting a shift from communal benefit to individualism. Initially rooted in Alexis de Tocqueville's idea of "self-interest well-understood," contemporary notions often prioritize personal gain over community welfare. This transformation is documented through an analysis of presidential speeches, television sitcoms, and popular music. The book ultimately discusses the detrimental effects of this individualism on democracy, illustrating how a narrow focus can undermine collective well-being and political engagement.
Exploring the concept of identity, the book argues against the idea of fixed, singular selves. It presents the notion that individuals are dynamic and multifaceted, influenced by various social contexts and interactions. Through this lens, it examines how identities evolve over time, highlighting the complexities of self-perception and social identity formation.
Challenging the prevailing ideologies of both the Alt-Right and the national security establishment, this book presents an alternative vision for American foreign policy rooted in a tragic understanding of life and politics. The author, a distinguished scholar, critiques bipartisan approaches and emphasizes the significance of core American values in shaping both domestic and international policies. By offering a fresh perspective, the work aims to inspire a new congress and president to redefine America's role on the global stage.
The updated edition features three substantial new chapters, including a prologue and an epilogue, alongside fresh insights on World War I. It retains the influential typology of international crises and critiques of deterrence, while emphasizing agency and incorporating political psychology to analyze irrational policy-making. The new content reevaluates previous arguments, offering a critical assessment in light of developments following the Cold War, making it a vital resource for understanding contemporary international relations.
"Competition between America and China has intensified since 2009, creating even greater risks of conflict. Why is this so and what can be done about it? Feng Zhang and Ned Lebow identify the mistakes China and America made in their mutual relations and explain their causes and consequences. Drawing on international relations theory and historical lessons they develop a holistic approach to conflict management and resolution. It is based on a sophisticated staging of deterrence, reassurance, and diplomacy. Minimal deterrence combined with multiple forms of reassurance and sustained diplomatic efforts to reduce or finesse key areas of conflict offer the promising pathway for America and China to enhance their security and buttress their self-esteem"--
Foreign policies consistent with generally accepted ethical norms are more likely to succeed, and those at odds with them to fail. Constructing original data sets and analysing multiple case studies, Lebow makes an empirical case for ethics in international relations.
Inspector Khan of the Cambridgeshire Constabulary investigates the murder of a serpent-tongued Cambridge professor whilst fending off the romantic overtures of an interfering local reporter. An escalating cat-and-mouse game develops between the police and a murderer who cannot control his impulses. It leads to a dramatic and humourous denouement in Berlin. This is a classic English murder mystery with the twist that the chief detective is a first-generation, well-educated, South Asian Muslim, who effectively exploits the often-stereotypic response of others to him to benefit his policing.
Introduction -- Part 1. Principles of Justice in the West -- Justice in Confucianism -- Justice in Mohism, Legalism, Daoism -- Comparing East and West -- Part 2. International "Order" -- Justice and Order Between America and China -- Reimagining World Order -- Conclusion -- Smart Power and Great Learning.