The Foreign Policy of Russia: Changing Systems, Enduring Interests
Probably the best-known study of Russia's foreign policy is George F. Kennan's classic Russia and the West Under Lenin and Stalin (LJ 4/15/61). Political scientists Donaldson (Univ. of Tulsa) and Nogee (Univ. of Houston) broaden the focus of Kennan's classic work and offer a sweeping yet concise overview of Russia's role and behavior in international politics. Much of their book serves as background for the authors' chief task: to explain and anticipate the current foreign policy aims of the leaders of the Russian republic. They find a consistent pursuit of balance-of-power politics and military alliances by Russian leaders from tsarist times to the present. Seven key variables are put forth to explain the changing directions of Soviet foreign policy within the framework of an "international system." They cautiously conclude that the current "multipolar" environment might lead to a more cooperative approach by Russia's current leadersAalthough unpredictable personality traits are still a concern. This is a useful title for academic libraries.AThomas A. Karel, Franklin & Marshall Coll. Lib., Lancaster, PACopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.