Laura Neack Knihy

The book delves into the intricate processes and factors that influence foreign policy, employing a levels-of-analysis framework. It examines various elements such as the impact of leadership, negotiation tactics, national image, political culture, public opinion, media influence, and the role of nonstate actors. By integrating theoretical insights with real-world case studies, the text provides a comprehensive understanding of how these diverse factors shape a nation's foreign policy decisions.

Foreign policy in the new millennium looks different from the traditional state-centered, top-down edicts issued by nation states throughout the 20th century. New actors and new institutions interact with established countries and contexts in a global environment of increasing complexity. Laura Neack draws on examples that range from the Dalai Lama and Pinochet to Amnesty International and Al Qaeda to illustrate the changing character of foreign policymaking and also to suggest its powerful effects in a world turned upside down as much by peacemaking as by terrorism.

The book explores the complexities of national, international, and human security, emphasizing the limitations of a state-first security ethic. Laura Neack argues that this long-standing belief prioritizes states as the main actors in international relations, leading to a reliance on self-protection and a narrow focus on national security. She compellingly illustrates how this approach ultimately fails to ensure safety for states, the global community, and individuals, suggesting that in a world dominated by state-centric views, genuine security remains out of reach.

The book explores the paradox of state security efforts, illustrating how attempts to combat violence can lead to increased insecurity on national, international, and individual scales. It challenges the conventional view that states are the primary actors in security matters, proposing a more nuanced understanding of security dynamics. This framework is designed to enhance students' comprehension of the complexities surrounding security issues across different levels.

The book delves into the dynamics of foreign policy, examining the processes and factors that influence decision-making. Laura Neack presents a revised edition that integrates theoretical insights with contemporary case studies, including the Eurozone crisis, rising nationalism in Germany and Japan, and the reactions of Canada, Brazil, and India to global events. Additionally, it highlights the impact of the Egyptian youth revolution and Obama's grand strategy, providing a comprehensive understanding of both historical and current foreign policy challenges.

Exploring the complexities of national, international, and human security, this updated edition presents a clear comparison of these concepts. Laura Neack examines key policies and integrates new case studies, highlighting the persistent challenges of achieving security. She argues that the historical belief in states as the sole legitimate international actors complicates modern security efforts, making it a continually elusive goal.