The Declining Hegemon: The United States and European Defense, 1960-1990

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Joseph Lepgold's book examines the substance of and rationale for the American defence commitment to Europe between 1960 and 1980, a period marked by change in the US world position, and continues into the 1990s, in light of the recent changes in Europe. Lepgold explores how and why political leaders have adapted to this change. His volume is the analysis of a "hegemonic" state's foreign policy adaption. His study probes such questions as: if policymakers do not adjust basic policy priorities, what other trade-offs are made Do these constitute meaningful patterns Do commitments resist change or are they context-dependent and supple The focus of this study is on US policy toward Europe, rather than NATO and its European members. Chapter 1 of "The Declining Hegemon" provides the background for the analytic discussion in of policy adaption. It examines four policy debates of the late 1970s and 1980s; these discuss past adaption as well as future choices. These debates question the decline of US power; the future US role in Europe - whether any of the 1950 commitments should be adjusted; and the relationship of foreign policy commitments and resources - whether they should grow and decline in tandem. Chapters 4 through 6 provide a decade by decade case study of US policy. The last chapter of Lepgold's study draws conclusions and suggests future implications in the light of recent developments in Europe.

Reviews

Lepgold's study is well argued and carefully researched within the theoretical framework of traditional power perspectives.-The American Academy of Political and Social Science
"Lepgold's study is well argued and carefully researched within the theoretical framework of traditional power perspectives."-The American Academy of Political and Social Science

Author Bio

JOSEPH LEPGOLD is Assistant Professor of International Affairs and Government at Georgetown University. He has authored articles for Coexistence, Defense Analysis, and The Political Science Reviewer. He is currently working on a book-length manuscript on the United States and the new balance-of-power politics.