Realpolitik
Is politics based primarily on circumstances and facts
Real World Example
During the period of A Crisis in Confidence (1968-1980), realpolitik played a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy, especially during the Cold War. Leaders like President Richard Nixon and his advisor Henry Kissinger focused on practical and strategic decisions rather than ideological ones, leading to actions like opening diplomatic relations with China and easing tensions with the Soviet Union. This approach was important because it addressed the urgent need to manage global power dynamics and prevent nuclear conflict. Today, realpolitik still influences how countries handle international relations, emphasizing realistic and pragmatic solutions over idealistic goals. For example, when governments negotiate trade deals, they often prioritize economic benefits and stability, which directly affects jobs and prices for everyday people, showing how practical politics impact our daily lives.
Practice Version
