Art makes a strong case for selective engagement as the most desirable strategy for contemporary America. It is the one that seeks to forestall dangers, not simply react to them; that is politically viable, at home and abroad; and that protects all US interests, both essential and desirable. Art concludes that "selective engagement is not a strategy for all times, but it is the best grand strategy for these times".

Foreword by Richard C. Leone, President of The Century FoundationIntroduction1. The International Setting2. America's National Interests3. Dominion, Collective Security, and Containment4. Selective Engagement5. Isolationism and Offshore Balancing6. Selective Engagement and the Free Hand Strategies7. Implementing Selective EngagementAppendix A. Civil Wars Active between 1991 and 2000
Appendix B. International Wars Active between 1991 and 2000Notes
Index