A Creative Tension: The Foreign
Policy Roles of the President and
Congress (Wilson Forum) by Jordan
Tama
Great Primer By A Citizen Leader
A Creative Tension is a fresh look at the foreign policy roles of Congress
and the president by one of the most astute congressional practitioners of
foreign policy of recent decades, former U.S. representative and chairman
of the House International Relations Committee Lee H. Hamilton. With an
insiders perspective based on thirty-four years in Congress, Hamilton
elucidates current domestic and international pressures influencing U.S.
foreign policy, strengths and weaknesses in the foreign policy process, and
ways to improve the performance of the president and Congress. A
Creative Tension argues persuasively and elegantly that better
consultation between the executive and legislative branches is the most
effective way to strengthen American foreign policy. A Creative Tension
is the most extensive analysis of the congressional and presidential roles

in foreign policy by a former member of Congress. Hamilton explores the
topic in an original, stimulating, and accessible manner by deftly mixing
incisive commentary with illuminating personal reflections. The book
includes timely and important recommendations for improving the ability of
Congress and the president to develop a foreign policy that meets the
challenges and opportunities of a post-September 11 world. It should be
of interest to foreign policy makers, scholars and students of American
politics, and the general public.Wilson Forum
Personal Review: A Creative Tension: The Foreign Policy Roles
of the President and Congress (Wilson Forum) by Jordan Tama
"Despite its increased activism in recent decades, Congress rarely leads
and often falls short in educating the American people about foreign
policy...occasionally, members give foreign policy speeches--some are
very good--but they rarely feel any real burden to explain our foreign policy
challenges to the American people. The members who do so are a distinct
minority."
Hamilton took his place in that minority during his 1965-99 career in the
U.S. Congress, and he continues the role of political educator with this
small but insightful book about the relationship between Congress and the
president.
In it, he details the changes and continuities he observed in Congress
during his long tenure, and argues convincingly that U.S. foreign policy will
be most effective when it rests on strong presidential leadership,
responsible congressional criticism and partnership, and sustained
dialogue and consultation.
Hamilton's recommendations carry added weight because of his own
personal integrity, and his work towards encouraging Americans to
become more involved and informed citizens. Currently the director of
Washington's Woodrow Wilson Center for International Scholars, he also
runs a "Center for Congress" at Indiana University, and served as vice
chairman of the 9-11 Commission. Hamilton is critical when need be, but
not cynical, providing a model for active citizenship.
As I prepare to join our Foreign Service, this book has helped me better
understand the mechanics of the U.S. Congress. Its readable style makes
it a great primer on foreign policy for anyone who wants to know more
about the relationship between the Legislative and Executive branches.
Hamilton takes his place alongside Indiana Senators Lugar and Bayh as a
distinguished national leader who has earned the respect of both parties in
the service of the United States. He makes me proud to be a Hoosier.
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