Balancing in the Balkans provides an in-depth analysis into the different factors surrounding recent historical events in the Balkans. It serves as brilliant source material for the area as well as for political science theories like coerceive diplomacy, et al. Especially timely considering recent occurrences in the area. Reccomended for anyone interested in current events and international relations.

Tanter's book has almost no objectivity with regards to concepts of rogue states and regimes. The point of view taken is merely that of the United States (itself perhaps the biggest "rogue state" in the world today). In fact, Tanter has no problem with the fact that his book is merely an extension of US foreign policy. For example, after he states that Cuba has no large army, no weapons of mass destruction, nor has it engaged in terrorist acts, he still calls Cuba a rogue regime "because of historical tensions, Washington considers Castro a rogue leader--thus Cuba itself is an outlaw regime." (x) Lybia is consider a called a "rejectionist"[?] state because it does not accept the American-led peace process with Israel. It is clear now that the American-led peace process was never really to benefit the Palestinains in any way, but Tanter conveninetly overlooks these kinds of facts. Moral of the story: Go with Chomsky's book on Rogue Nations and skip this extension of Kissinger-type foreign policy.

Tanter's ROGUE REGIMES captures the essence of the dilemma posed by the demise of the Cold War. Absent a Soviet Union, how does the United States deal with lesser threats to its security without damaging its standing as a member of the international community? Tanter's book provides valuable insight into the nature of these regimes, which is a must for any approach that accounts for the often irrational nature of these regimes.

The United States faces new and complex foreign policy challenges from non-traditional sources since the demise of the Soviet Union. It is clear that these challenges will come from smaller, more militant, idealistic countries and leaders trying to acquire and improve weapons of mass destruction. Terrorism will clearly become the weapon of choice for these actors in the 21st Century. Dr. Tanter has laid out the threat that many of the world's "rougue" nations and leaders pose to U.S. national security. More importantly he has suggested courses of action for policy makers and implementors to take. It is clear that the U.S. needs to update policy on many nations and organizations. His strong, no-nonsense approach to national security and international relations will not be well received among the "cookies and milk" crowd, but the long-term security of the U.S. depends on the ability American policy-makers to rise to the challenges that face them and make the tough decisions to protect American interests. Tanter's Rouge Regimes should be on their short list of references.