Melakopides defines Canadian internationalism as "pragmatic idealism," a balanced synthesis of idealism and pragmatism, and demonstrates concretely how it reflects the principles, interests, and values of the country's mainstream political culture. Focusing on Canada's record in the areas of peacekeeping and peacemaking, arms control and disarmament, foreign development assistance, human rights, and ecological concerns, Melakopides reveals that at the heart of Canadian foreign policy are the concepts and the practice of moderation, communication, mediation, cooperation, caring, and sharing. Pragmatic Idealism is an inspiring challenge to the assumption that all foreign policy is premised on realpolitik. Students, scholars, and practitioners of Canadian foreign policy as well as historians, Canadianists, members of NGOs, and interested members of the general public will find it an engaging and enlightening experience.

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"Taking issue with mainstream views on Canadian foreign policy, Melakopides presents an alternative interpretation of the historical record. Pragmatic Idealism is the most comprehensive critical survey of Canadian foreign policy." Tom Keating, Department of Political Science, University of Alberta