pt. 1. From the past to the present. The emergence of diplomacy and the great powers ; The classical system of diplomacy, 1815-1914 ; The diplomatic revolution begins, 1919-1939 ; A postwar system of security: great-power directorate or United Nations? ; The Cold War ; The evolving international system.
pt. 2. History, theory, and practice. Lessons of history and knowledge for statecraft ; Negotiation ; Deterrence ; Coercive diplomacy ; Crisis management.
pt. 3. Restraints and reflections. Ethics and other restraints on force and statecraft.
Conclusion: Reflections on force and statecraft and the diplomatic challenges of our time.