Kennan and the Art of Foreign Policy

Library Journal

Called by the publisher an ``intellectual biography'' and an ``interdisciplinary analysis,'' this is little more than revisionist history at its worst. Confusing, wordy, and arrogant, the work is highly critical of the noted historian and diplomat. In a long and convoluted analysis, Stephanson (history, Rutgers Univ.) finds much wrong with Kennan, with faults including an incomplete understanding of Marxism, an ever-present ``Western bias,'' and an alleged preference for authoritarian over democratic regimes. Given Kennan's long and productive career in both diplomacy and academe, a balanced and readable assessment of his career would be most helpful. Unfortunately, it will not be found here. See Kennan's own Sketches from a Life , reviewed in this issue, p. 00.-- Ed. -- Joseph W. Constance Jr., Boston Coll. Libs.

Booknews

From an array of intellectual reference points, Stephanson (history, Rutgers U.) has written a serious assessment of this complicated, often controversial, highly respected American policymaker. A work of general significance for a wide range of contemporary issues in foreign and domestic politics and culture. Emphasis is on Kennan's lifelong attempt to grasp Soviet foreign policy and devise an effective American response. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)