Open Secrets of American Foreign Policy

by Gordon Tullock

American foreign policy is a dynamic and often controversial field, and is currently a topic of deep interest given recent developments in the Middle East, North Korea and China. In order to understand where US foreign policy is headed, it is important to first examine where it came from. This book provides an analysis of the political, economic and military history of American foreign policy, with the aim of divulging important details that most people have either never learned or forgotten hence the phrase open secrets . Covering events such as the attack on Pearl Harbor and the American Revolution, as well as American involvement in the Korean War and the collapse of Nationalist China, this fascinating book debunks a number of myths held by most people regarding US foreign policy, revealing some surprising conclusions.

154 pages, Paperback

First published June 28, 2007

Reviews

[Jeff Greason · Rating 4 out of 5]

An odd little book, focusing on some unpleasant truths of foreign policy history, but also simply some unusual incidents. It isn't clear what point the author is making -- but in some ways that is part of the charm of the book, in that it has a bit less of an axe to grind than a more typical treatment would. I found the insights of the author interesting, but whether it is valuable or not is a much more subjective matter.

[Jimmy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Certainly some interestingly honest and contrarian ideas. It is also likely limited to the author's our biases and experience. Can be regarded as opinion pieces unless there are clear evidence, or at the least citing of other sources. The author clearly did not have intel sources when it comes to Korea and Vietnam. I find the last chapter on the why is there an end of imperialism incredible coming from someone who worked at the State Department.

[Jamees · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very, very contrarian history book.