Towards Strategic Pragmatism in Foreign Policy: Cases of United States of America, China and Singapore

Phua examines how viewing pragmatism as a skill can help achieve better foreign policy outcomes, contrasting the US, China, and Singapore's approaches. He debunks dualistic myths and promotes pragmatism as a skill that can be developed.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 156 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Pragmatism is a multifaceted concept that has been debated for centuries. It is often seen as a means to an end, but some argue that it can be an end in itself. Pragmatism is also often seen as antithetical to ideology or morality, as it prioritizes practical outcomes over abstract principles.

In his book, "Pragmatism: A Skill More Than an Attribute," Singaporean diplomat and scholar Ong Teng Cheong argues that pragmatism is a skill that can be developed and applied to achieve better foreign policy outcomes. He examines and contrasts the ways in which the United States, China, and Singapore have incorporated pragmatism into their approaches to foreign policy.

One of the key arguments of the book is that pragmatism is not a binary concept, but rather a spectrum of approaches. Pragmatists can be found on both the left and the right, and they can use a variety of tools and strategies to achieve their goals. For example, the United States has used pragmatism to promote democracy and human rights around the world, while China has used pragmatism to expand its economic and political influence.

Ong Teng Cheong also debunks dualistic myths around pragmatism and ideology. He argues that pragmatism is not necessarily opposed to ideology, but rather can be used to complement and reinforce it. For example, pragmatists can use ideology to provide a framework for their policies, but they can also use pragmatism to adapt their policies to changing circumstances.

The book also provides a fresh and practical approach to pragmatism. It offers a range of tools and strategies that can be used by students, analysts, and policymakers to achieve better foreign policy outcomes. For example, the book suggests that pragmatists should focus on building relationships and finding common ground with other countries, rather than trying to impose their own values or beliefs on them.

Overall, "Pragmatism: A Skill More Than an Attribute" is an essential primer for students, analysts, and policymakers. With a fresh and practical approach to pragmatism, the book offers a valuable insight into the complex world of foreign policy. It debunks dualistic myths around pragmatism and ideology and promotes the view of pragmatism as a skill that can be developed and applied to achieve better outcomes.

Weight: 224g
Dimension: 215 x 139 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032065410