Intellectual on Watch. James Eayrs and the Study of Foreign Policy and International Affairs

In: International journal / Canadian Institute of International Affairs, Band 62, Heft 2, S. 215-239

Abstract

An introduction to a special section on, "A Tribute to James Eayrs," describes his life, career, & extraordinary contribution to the study of Canadian foreign policy. Eayrs's writings & commentaries on history, political science, & contemporary international affairs/foreign policy are discussed. Special attention is given to his ground-breaking volume, The Art of the Possible: Government & Foreign Policy in Canada (1961), as well as the four-volume compilation of his essays, lectures, & newspaper columns that appeared in 1961, 1968, 1971, & 1973 respectively. Although the range of Eayrs's interests increased with time, all of his writing is informed by his perception of the proper function of intellectuals in relation to government. Other issues discussed include his emphasis on the need to hold decision-makers accountable; his ability to give his students the needed analytical tools to understand how decision makers interpret & respond to circumstances; & the nature of international politics as power politics. A brief synopsis of the three articles in the special section is included. J. Lindroth