Best Foreign Policy Books of 2017: A Comprehensive Guide
In the ever-evolving landscape of global politics, 2017 brought forth a wealth of insightful and thought-provoking literature on foreign policy. This article explores the best foreign policy books of 2017, offering a diverse range of perspectives to enhance your understanding of international relations.
Understanding Global Power Shifts
2017 was marked by significant shifts in global power dynamics, with nations like China and Russia asserting their influence. Two notable books that delve into these changes are:
- Xi Jinping: The Backlash by Kerry Brown - This book provides a comprehensive look into the Chinese President's leadership style and the implications of his policies on the global stage.
- Nothing is True and Everything is Possible: The Surreal Heart of the New Russia by Peter Pomerantsev - Pomerantsev offers a fascinating exploration of modern Russia, its political landscape, and its impact on global affairs.
Middle East and North Africa
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region remained a focal point in 2017, with several compelling books offering fresh perspectives on its complex dynamics:
- The Dawn of the Arab Uprisings: End of an Old Order by Marc Lynch - Lynch provides a detailed analysis of the Arab Spring and its aftermath, offering valuable insights into the region's political transformations.
- Syria: The Bradt Travel Guide by Daniel Dodd - This unique guidebook offers a nuanced look at Syria's rich history and culture, providing a stark contrast to the ongoing conflict and its devastating impact on the country.
Europe and the United States
2017 also saw several notable publications focusing on Europe and the United States, their internal politics, and their relations with the rest of the world:
- Strange Rebels: The Greybeards, the Marauders, and the Rise of the New Left by Christian Caryl - Caryl explores the origins and evolution of the New Left, offering valuable context for understanding contemporary political movements.
- The Road Not Taken: How the Decisions We Make Shape Our Destinies by Max Boot - Boot presents a thought-provoking exploration of historical turning points and the role of individual agency in shaping global events.
International Organizations and Global Challenges
Several books published in 2017 focused on international organizations and the global challenges they face:
- The Future of the United Nations: Understanding the Past to Chart a Way Forward by James Cockayne - Cockayne offers a comprehensive analysis of the UN's history and its potential future role in global governance.
- Climate Change and Global Energy Security: A New Foreign Policy Agenda by David L. Goldwyn - Goldwyn argues for a new foreign policy agenda centered around climate change and global energy security, offering practical solutions to these pressing challenges.
Honorable Mentions
While not published in 2017, two highly influential books deserve mention for their enduring relevance to foreign policy discussions:
- The Guns of August by Barbara W. Tuchman - This Pulitzer Prize-winning classic offers a detailed and engaging account of the events leading up to World War I, providing valuable context for understanding the complexities of international conflict.
- The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined by Steven Pinker - Pinker's seminal work challenges conventional wisdom about human nature, arguing that violence has been declining throughout history, with profound implications for global politics.
In conclusion, the best foreign policy books of 2017 offer a rich tapestry of insights into the complex and ever-changing world of international relations. Whether you're a seasoned diplomat, a curious student, or a concerned citizen, these books provide valuable perspectives on the global challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
