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In response to the editors' request, this article attempts to identify the developmental factors that have influenced the way the author has approached the study of Canadian Foreign Policy. It begins with some comments on the post-World War II international environment and on how it was regarded within his family household. His later exposures to the study of international affairs while an undergraduate at Dalhousie and subsequently at Oxford are then described, the pedagogical emphasis in both cases being focused on historical material. This was less true in the case of his graduate work at the University of Toronto, but even there the sense that historical understanding was essential was reinforced. The author's overall conclusion has not been that more explicitly theoretical work has no value—quite the contrary—but rather that a knowledge of the detailed particulars, both past and present, cannot be neglected if the application of theoretical ideas to the analysis of specific international problems is to facilitate the cultivation of good judgment and the making of sound policy.

The first regular article in a special section on Canadian diplomat, professor, & historian John W. Holmes, highlights his emphasis on pragmatism & flexibility in the management of international & domestic political activity. He maintained that this approach was especially important for middle & smaller powers that are not in a good position to flex their muscles when pursuing their interests. The significance Holmes gave to prudence in the conduct of international affairs & the practical implications of this position are examined. It is contended that his prudential, security-oriented practice was fundamentally statis (although the term did not become used until latter), & would now be viewed as elitist. Holmes believed all political activity was the manifestation of conflict, a position based on "securing the international community from the menace of interstate conflict." Consideration is given to how Holmes's guidelines for the exercise of diplomacy for lesser powers would resonate today. It is concluded that his advice remains relevant although amendments may be needed to adjust to changes in the international environment. J. Lindroth

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

Introduces a special issue that presents proposals to new Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin on foreign policy. The current, post-Cold War situation is described in terms of dilemmas & tensions, particularly those informing Canada's relations with the US, & geopolitical realities. Next, three general umbrella concerns are addressed: strategic or "framing" issues regarding conceptualizing Canada's global position & determining its priorities, capacities, & bilateral & multilateral relations; government resource allocation; & diplomatic style. K. Coddon

Critiques the current Canadian approach toward foreign policy as smug, complacent, & self-deluded concerning Canadian values, virtues, & morals. The author questions whether Canadian cultural, intellectual, & academic activities & accomplishments should be placed on public display abroad; whether foreign policies should be based on the idea that Canadian values & culture would benefit all people & cultures; & whether their foreign efforts should propagate & proselytize their putative values. The author concludes that Canadians should recognize that their economic success & multicultural development is due as much to their geography & resources as to the quality of their souls. L. A. Hoffman