A New Realism: Bill Richardson’s Foreign Policy

The Harvard International Review recently published an essay by Governor Richardson. In the essay, Richardson describes the foreign policy he favors as “New Realism.” New realism is an interesting theory, and it’s important for all of us to stop looking at the controversy of the day, and to start talking policies / plans. This is why I have summarized and analysed Richardon’s essay.

Governor Richardson calls his take on foreign policy “New Realism.” The essence of New Realism is the idea that “the United States must craft a new foreign policy adapted to a world of complex global challenges which require thoughtful and global solutions.” I greatly encourage you all to read his entire essay, and if you don’t want to take the time to do so, then at least read this post which basically summarizes it and adds some thoughts and comments to it.

Note the ‘thoughtful’ and the ‘complex’ put in there: that’s quite a breath of fresh air nowadays. We hear about strong foreign policy, determined foreign policy plans, but I seldom get the idea that any given candidate understands that there is no such thing as a ‘one sulution fits all.’ Every (new) situation demands new questions, new approaches, new views and new answers.

To read the summary and analysis please click here.