Describes the post World War II development of the discipline of international relations, stating that it helped reinvigorate interest in the tradition of political philosophy. Examines shortcomings, such as its division into realist and idealist camps, and discusses the works and ideologies of people such as Morgenthau, Aron, and Beitz. (GEA)

Discusses the historical and theoretical literature on alliances and examines the U.S. experiences with them. Identifies lessons that the United States must learn, such as the fact that alliance does not mean security and that alliances can be entangling. Describes how U.S. policies must adapt to current realities. (GEA)

The Vietnam War appeared to give rise to the "imperial presidency," and then, when the war became protracted and divisive to contribute to the Congressional reassertion of power. But Vietnam really only intensified and accelerated a movement that, in one way or another, would have taken place anyway. (RM)

In this era of rapid communications, increasing interdependence in trade and monetary relations, large foreign investment flows, and looming uncertainties about pollution and resource scarcities, the traditional methods of the generalist diplomat are needed more urgently than ever. Several factors that today impede the diplomatic dialogue are…

Vietnam War film can provoke responses among students, and it is easy for them and the teacher to move on to the subjective, and unsubstantiated, conclusion that emotive images had an unprecedented effect on U.S. public opinion, and, hence, on the shaping of war policy. The government press-problem is discussed. (RM)