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Essential Reads: 10 Books on Diplomacy and International Relations
Explore 10 must-read books that delve into the evolution of diplomacy and international relations from the Treaty of Westphalia to today.
Book Summaries
A New History of the World
Peter Frankopan's ambitious work redefines world history through the lens of the Silk Roads, emphasizing the interconnectedness of cultures and the evolution of diplomacy.
3 Key Takeaways:
- The Silk Roads: Connecting Civilizations and Shaping World History
- The Rise and Fall of Empires Along the Silk Roads
- Religion's Spread and Evolution Through Trade Routes
What History Reveals About Our Future
This book by political scientists Levitsky and Ziblatt explores the erosion of democratic norms, offering historical context that is crucial for understanding current global political dynamics.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Democracy's death is often gradual and barely noticeable
- Authoritarian leaders often rise through democratic means
- Political parties play a crucial role as democracy's gatekeepers
Why Violence Has Declined
Steven Pinker's analysis of the decline of violence offers a hopeful perspective on human progress, relevant to discussions on international relations and diplomacy.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Violence has declined dramatically throughout human history
- The Leviathan effect: Strong governments reduce violence
- The Civilizing Process: Manners and self-control curb aggression
Ten Maps That Reveal the Future of Our World
Tim Marshall's exploration of geography's impact on global politics provides essential context for understanding the dynamics of international relations.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Geography shapes nations' destinies and global power dynamics
- Water scarcity and climate change fuel conflicts in the Sahel
- Ethiopia's water resources give it regional leverage and global attention
Written by former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, this book provides a comprehensive historical perspective on the quest for world order, making it essential for understanding modern diplomacy.
3 Key Takeaways:
- The quest for world order: A historical perspective
- Europe's unique approach to international order
- The balance of power: A cornerstone of stability
The West and the Rest
Niall Ferguson's exploration of Western civilization's rise provides critical insights into the historical context of international relations and diplomacy.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Western civilization's dominance stemmed from six key innovations
- Competition drove European exploration and global expansion
- Scientific revolution propelled Western technological superiority
Russia, Europe, America
Timothy Snyder's analysis of Russia's influence on Western democracies and the rise of authoritarianism is essential for understanding contemporary international relations.
3 Key Takeaways:
- The politics of eternity: Russia's new form of authoritarianism
- Ivan Ilyin's influence on Putin's Russia and the concept of Russian innocence
- The collapse of European integration and the rise of Eurasia
The End of Diplomacy and the Decline of American Influence
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Ronan Farrow examines the decline of U.S. diplomacy and the rise of militarization, providing critical insights into contemporary international relations.
3 Key Takeaways:
- The decline of American diplomacy began long before Trump
- Military and intelligence agencies have eclipsed the State Department
- Diplomats like Richard Holbrooke fought to maintain relevance
And How to Stop Them
Barbara F. Walter's examination of civil wars provides crucial insights into the conditions that lead to conflict, relevant for understanding international relations.
3 Key Takeaways:
- The United States is dangerously close to civil war
- Anocracies are at highest risk for internal conflict
- Political factions based on identity increase instability
Networks and Power, from the Freemasons to Facebook
Niall Ferguson's analysis of networks and power dynamics offers a unique perspective on the evolution of diplomacy and international relations.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Networks have shaped history more than hierarchies
- The Illuminati: A case study in network power and myth
- Printing and Protestantism: Networks that challenged hierarchies
