Power and Principle: Memoirs of the National Security Adviser, 1977-1981

While the earlier reviewers praise the book for many valuable in-sights into the inner workings of foreign policy-making, a thing I wholeheartedly agree, I disagree with their criticism over the perceived timidity of Brzezinski memoir. One should not confuse tough language for precise presentation of an argument. It's been a while since I read this book but the impression remains very strong and clear in my memory: there is no confusing of what Brzezinski's takes on Jimmy Carter, Cyrus Vance and other major players are. The fact that he writes with respect about all his counterparts regardless of possible deep disagreements is a sign of class, not timidity. Same goes for his views on all the most important foreign affair issues of the day. Be it Iran, Middle East or Soviet Union the reader is left with no uncertainty as to what the right policy should have been and what mistakes, in Brzezinski's view, were committed. There is no need for punchline of pointing a finger at anybody. The reader can judge for himself. Very good book, insightful. Strongly recommended.