Realpolitik

Since its coinage in mid-19th century Germany, Realpolitik has proven both elusive and protean. To some, it represents the best approach to meaningful change and political stability in a world buffeted by uncertainty and rapid transformation. To others, it encapsulates an attitude of cynicism and cold calculation, a transparent and self-justifying policy exercised by dominant nations over weaker. Remolded across generations and repurposed to its political and ideological moment, Realpolitik remains a touchstone for discussion about statecraft and diplomacy. It is a freighted concept.Historian John Bew explores the genesis of Realpolitik, tracing its longstanding and enduring relevance in political and foreign policy debates. Bew's book uncovers the context that gave birth to Realpolitik-that of the fervor of radical change in 1848 in Europe. He explains its application in the conduct of foreign policy from the days of Bismarck onward. Lastly, he illuminates its translation from German into English, one that reveals the uniquely Anglo-American version of realpolitik-small "r"-being practiced today, a modern iteration that attempts to reconcile idealism with the pursuit of national interests.Lively, encyclopedic, and utterly original, Realpolitik: A History illuminates the life and times of a term that has shaped and will continue to shape international relations.

IntroductionPart I: Real Realpolitik1. The origins of Realpolitik2. Foundations of Realpolitik3. Realpolitik and Bismarck: a fatal compromise?4. Realpolitik after RochauPart II: Anti-realpolitik and the Anglo-American Worldview5. The English Discovery of Realpolitik6. American Realpolitik7. The Coming Peace and the Eradication of RealpolitikPart III: Inter-war Realpolitik8. The Ingestion of Realpolitik9. Germany and the New Realpolitik10. Machiavelli's Return? Realpolitik, Fascism and AppeasementPart IV: The Americanisation of Realpolitik11. America's Awakening: Geopolitics and the Ethics of American Statecraft12. Realpolitik through the Back Door? The Role of the Emigr?s13. Bismarckism and Anti-BismarckismPart V: Practical Realpolitik14. Reluctant Realpolitik in the Cold War Era15. Realpolitik in the Nixon-Carter Era16. Wither Realpolitik? The End of the Cold War and BeyondConclusion: Why we need a Renaissance of Realpolitik