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New Books Network

Adam Chapnick, "Canada First, Not Canada Alone: A History of Canadian Foreign Policy" (Oxford UP, 2024)

Feb 1, 2025
Asa McKercher, a specialist in Canada-U.S. relations and holder of a PhD from Cambridge, delves into his book, detailing the evolution of Canadian foreign policy since the 1930s. He discusses the phrase 'Canada First, Not Canada Alone,' emphasizing how Canada balances national interests with global engagement. Through engaging case studies, he sheds light on crucial themes like environmental reform, trade, and wartime strategy. McKercher critiques historical and contemporary foreign policy challenges, unveiling the necessity for revitalized diplomatic efforts in a complex geopolitical landscape.
01:01:24

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Quick takeaways

  • The podcast explores the historical evolution of Canadian foreign policy since the 1930s, highlighting its shift towards greater autonomy from the British Empire.
  • It emphasizes the complexity of contemporary diplomacy in Canada, shaped by multiple stakeholders and the need for integrated policy formulation.

Deep dives

Importance of Understanding Canadian Foreign Policy

The discussion emphasizes the critical need for a nuanced understanding of Canadian foreign policy and its historical evolution. It highlights that the book co-authored by Asa McKercher and Adam Chapnick aims to provide a comprehensive view of how Canada's foreign policy has developed over the last 90 years. The authors take a case study approach to illustrate key themes and issues that Canadian policymakers have faced, reinforcing that understanding this history is essential for grappling with contemporary foreign policy challenges. By exploring past decisions and their consequences, the book seeks to contribute to ongoing debates regarding Canada’s role in a complex global landscape.

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