Berkley Center

This book talk featured Anatol Lieven and John Hulsman discussing their book Ethical Realism: A Vision for America's Role in the World (2006). Lieven and Hulsman, two distinguished policy experts from different political camps, joined forces to write an impassioned manifesto that illuminates a new direction in US foreign policy. The book argues that by combining both the "practical" (decisions based on both national security and economic concerns) and the "good" (that which is moral, prudent, responsible, and respectful of the views and interests of other nations), America can successfully achieve its foreign policy goals. Ethical realism is tough enough to provide a basis for bold action, but unlike traditional realism, it is neither cynical nor ruthless. It is rooted in the commonsensical, everyday morality and generosity of spirit that Americans practice themselves and expect of their neighbors.