U.S. Foreign Policy: The Paradox of World Power

by Hook S

The United States holds a paradoxical role: it is the world's lone super power, yet ironically, is limited by the same factors that facilitated its primacy. A sense of national exceptionalism, a diffusion of governmental powers, and an open civil society helped to create a global behemoth, though at times also restrict the government's freedom of action. Hook looks closely at this push and pull by focusing on institutions of power, both inside and outside of government. He concludes that these public and private spheres have become more fractured and contentious as the scope of U.S. foreign policy has broadened a serious problem if the nation is to speak effectively with one voice in international affairs. As Hook convincingly shows, the lines between domestic and foreign-policy concerns are increasingly blurred, the number and magnitude of security problems crossing national borders continues to increase, and more individuals and groups vie to be part of the policy process. U.S. Foreign Policy helps students understand not only how U.S. foreign policymaking has become more pluralistic, partisan, and piecemeal, but why.

Clearly and concisely presented in twelve chapters, U.S. Foreign Policy provides a road map for fully grasping the complexity of the foreign policy decision-making process. Foundational chapters briefly cover a current snapshot of the United States in the world, how the country came to its present status, and the decision making process underlying both the study of foreign policy and the practice of policymaking. Body chapters thoroughly cover the roles each "inside-out" and "outside-in" institution plays. The book concludes with three policy domain chapters, examining in detail the problems of defense and national security policy, foreign economic and trade policy, and transnational issues such as environmental protection, energy policy, weapons proliferation, and human rights.

Student Features
An array of pedagogical features aid student learning:

Point/Counterpoint--getting students to debate the pros and cons of each chapter's main topic, these boxes explore the tensions inherent in the foreign policymaking process. In Their Own Words--giving voice to important figures who have shaped the direction of U.S. foreign policy, these boxes effectively illustrate the diversity of actors that fuel the paradox of world power. Full-Color Map Section--twelve pages of beautifully detailed maps give students not only a lay of the land, but show how important variables, such as multilateral alliances, U.S. interventions, U.S. troop presence, and trade relations, play out across the world. Attractive Graphics--a wealth of visual material, including over 70 figures and tables, and photos with meaty captions, help focus students on important concepts. Highlighted Key Terms and Glossary--important concepts and terms are bolded in the text, compiled at the end of each chapter with page references, and defined in the glossary. Internet References--annotated links to 8-10 Web sites per chapter help guide student research and exploration.

Genres: Nonfiction, Politics

399 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Nora Winckler]

This was something worse

[Matt]

It's a mostly inoffensive, non-noteworthy textbook, but two bits stay out:

* The book really wants to say "The 2016 United States election was not free and fair" but is scared

* Global population being too high is discussed as an issue. This is just not true at all lmao. This happened right at the end and made me annoyed.

[Roy McCullough]

A decent and accessible textbook that gets the job done.

[Warnie Pritchett]

Clear and concise, "U.S. Foreign Policy: The Paradox of World Power" is a great introductory text that educates the reader on the challenges of establishing foreign policy in an increasingly globalized world and an increasingly partisan American polity. Stephen W. Hook keeps the readers engaged with real world (and frequently updated) information and how elements of public policy shapes the global view of American primacy. A solid read for anyone interested in Political Science.

One star docked for occasional, awkward, content repetition that occasionally derailed points being made in the text. Total text pages minus references, appendices, and glossary: 417.

[Omair Tariq]

The book mainly discusses the process of foreign policy making and what factors play role in formulation of U.S. foreign policies. The book is not either a critique or support of American foreign policy but it basically talks about the process of policy development. Book is good for anyone interested in foreign affairs and gives a good insight about how foreign policies are made.

[Miranda]

PLS 312: U.S. Foreign Policy