Power Rules

By Leslie H. Gelb

Categories: Politics & Social Sciences

In Power Rules (2009), former official and journalist Leslie H. Gelb, president emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations, sets out principles for using American power in the world. Drawing on history from Machiavelli to the Iraq War, Gelb argues that power depends on leverage, pressure and the ability to persuade other states, not only on military strength. He criticises ideological approaches to foreign policy and calls for a pragmatic common-sense approach rooted in clear national interests.

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• Fareed Zakaria: “It’s a kind of update or modern version of Machiavelli. ... It’s a fascinating, interesting read. I think you’ll like it.”