The art of diplomacy is finding a reasonable route among imperfect alternatives.

Robert Dallek
About This Quote

Diplomacy is the art of finding a reasonable route among imperfect alternatives. The best diplomacy is thinking through all the problems and risks involved, and determining which option has the least negative consequences. Diplomacy is the art of figuring out how to do something without completely alienating half of your potential allies. Since diplomacy involves dealing with people who are often very different from you, sometimes it’s hard to figure out exactly what you can ask or offer that will work, especially if you’re not sure what the other person wants.

Source: Camelots Court: Inside The Kennedy White House

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