U.S. Foreign Policy, Fifth Edition

by Donald M. Snow (Author), Patrick J. Haney (Author)

U.S. Foreign Policy: Back to the Water’s Edge is based on the old idea that despite domestic differences and party politics, Americans should unite “at the water’s edge” and present a cohesive front to a hostile world. The fifth edition explores this theme through coverage of the Trump administration, its early policies, and how Trump’s initiatives fit into the broader historical patterns of foreign policy in the United States.

More compact than most of its competitors, the fifth edition packs necessary information and concepts into a lean but readable format. It contains rich historical content, providing the reader with snapshots of some of the truly classic highlights—and lowlights—of America’s record in foreign affairs. Written with the student reader in mind, each chapter offers several pedagogical aids designed to reinforce and extend comprehension of the material.

This text is also accompanied by a companion reader. Regional Cases in Foreign Policy, Second Edition, was written by Don Snow with the specific intention of providing material and perspectives not contained in the text. The reader contains fourteen mini-cases that can accompany classroom discussions or lectures on subjects as diverse as relations with Russia, Israel, or the Islamic State; specific questions like the border fence with Mexico; U.S.-Cuban relations; or the British withdrawal from the European Union (Brexit). Case examples are drawn from all parts of the world.

Review
A concise, mainstream US foreign policy text. It covers all the most essential topics, focuses on decision inputs and processes, and makes the somewhat controversial argument that partisan agreement is important and possible for improving US foreign policy outcomes. (Jacob Shively, University of West Florida)

A solid ‘no frills’ foreign policy textbook that provides a thorough introduction to U.S. foreign policy through extensive references, additional readings at the end of each chapter, and thought-provoking study questions. An excellent foundation for any US foreign policy course. (Jeannie Grussendorf, Georgia State University)

About the Author
Donald M Snow is professor emeritus at the University of Alabama where he taught courses on International Relations, American Defense Policy, and Foreign Policy. He is author of numerous books on national security and American foreign policy, including The Middle East, Oil, and the U.S. National Security Policy: Intractable Conflicts, Impossible Solutions, due to publish April 2016 with R&L.
Patrick J. Haney is professor and Chair of the Political Science department at Miami University in Ohio. He serves on the Editorial Board of Foreign Policy Analysis, is Past President of the Active Learning in International Affairs section of the International Studies Association (ISA), and currently an officer for the Foreign Policy Analysis section of the ISA.