Sample Solution

The “Idealist” approach to foreign policy under the Jimmy Carter administration was based on a belief in the power of diplomacy and international cooperation to bring about positive change. This approach prioritised human rights, democracy, and economic development over traditional national security interests such as military strength or economic advantage. It was reflected in several key initiatives including: the signing of two treaties with Panama to transfer control of the canal; negotiation of peace between Egypt & Israel; implementation of SALT II arms reduction treaty with Soviet Union; and promotion of human rights through his foreign policy agenda (Kegley & Wittkopf, 2015).

Carter believed that by promoting these values abroad he could create a more peaceful and secure world for future generations. He used diplomatic tools such as sanctions against countries who violated international standards or committed human rights abuses in an attempt to convince them to comply without resorting to war or other forms of aggression (Nye 1985). His emphasis on multilateralism also extended beyond traditional state-to-state negotiations towards involving non-state actors such as NGOs in order to bring about global consensus (Gerson 2020).

Whilst this approach did lead to some successes during Carter’s tenure such as improved relations with China and increased dialogues around nuclear proliferation there were also criticisms that it had limited practical applications when dealing with aggressive adversaries like Iran (Mearshimer 1995). Nonetheless, it formed an integral part of US foreign policy at this time which had a lasting influence even after his presidency ended.