The Pivot

The Future of American Statecraft in Asia

By: Kurt Campbell

Narrated by: Marc Vietor

Length: 15 hrs and 28 mins

Publisher's summary

From former assistant secretary of state Kurt M. Campbell comes the definitive analysis and explanation of the new major shift in American foreign policy, its interests and assets, to Asia.

There is a quiet drama playing out in American foreign policy far from the dark contours of upheaval in the Middle East and South Asia and the hovering drone attacks of the War on Terror. The United States is in the midst of a substantial and long-term national project, which is proceeding in fits and starts, to reorient its foreign policy to the East. The central tenet of this policy shift, aka the Pivot, is that the United States will need to do more with and in the Asia-Pacific hemisphere to help revitalize its own economy, to realize the full potential of the region's dramatic innovation, and to keep the peace in the world's most dynamic region, where the lion's share of the history of the 21st century will be written.

This book is about a necessary course correction for American diplomacy, commercial engagement, and military innovation during a time of unrelenting and largely unrewarding conflict. While the United States has intensified its focus on the Asia-Pacific arena relative to previous administrations, much more remains to be done.

The Pivot is about that future. It explores how the United States should construct a strategy that will position it to maneuver across the East and offers a clarion call for cunning, dexterity, and ingenuity in the period ahead for American statecraft in the Asia-Pacific region.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2016 Kurt Campbell (P)2016 Hachette Audio

Critic reviews

"This is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the emerging 'Pacific Century' and America's indispensable role in it." (John McCain, US senator)

"Kurt Campbell is one of America's foremost diplomats on Asia. He has written a highly provocative account of the history, and future, of America's engagement with the Eastern Hemisphere. Importantly, his voice is bound to be influential in any future Clinton administration." (Kevin Rudd, former prime minister of Australia)

"In The Pivot, Dr. Campbell gives a comprehensive description of the evolution of U.S. policy toward Asia, captures the centrality of Asia to America's future, and makes a compelling argument as to the specific ways we can harness the potential of this dynamic region in the twenty-first century. This book should be required reading for policy makers and scholars alike." (Richard Armitage, former deputy secretary of state)

Detailed Run Through of US Steps in Asia Pacific

The information about each country and vignettes about diplomacy came across well. It's exciting to hear thoughts on such an important part of the world from someone who is most likely in the running for Secretary of State. Repetitive at times, and lacking a sense of narrative in audio form. I was often lost due to organization choices that don't translate well into audiobooks.

More a sales pitch for TPP than anything else

I'd say I'm pretty versed in the dynamic political and economic arena of SE Asia since I do a lot of business in that region. This book gives a broad overview like many previous reviewers mentioned and I even liked the chapter that provides historical overview of conflict between the countries.

However, this book is just that... a broad overview. In my opinion, the author used this book as a way to sell the TPP. All in all, it was a good read that talked about the need to shift focus back to that region but it left me wanting more.

Excellent Overview of Asia

The organization of this book is very well though out, and clearly goes through Asian history, current events, foreign policy, and U.S. ties in a comprehensive review and analysis of U.S.-Asia relations as a whole. Clear policy proposals are laid out for the next administration. Campbell also makes an effort to keep the book entertaining with his dry whit. Definitely recommend this book to anyone looking to get a better understanding of Asia today.

Boilerplate

Says what the US should do, but never does. Poor history rooted in American arrogance.