One commentator succinctly
describes the links between idealism and public diplomacy: “Skillfully conducted and
adequately resourced, this ‘new diplomacy’ — of which public diplomacy has become an
integral part — will continue to contribute toward a safer and more peaceful world” (Roberst,
12
2006). Following these assumptions, the study will look to see if mostly democratic and free
countries practice public diplomacy.
The ultimate critique of open diplomacy and idealistic public diplomacy comes from
George Kennan. Kennan (1984) focuses on the rational power balances both pre and during the
Cold War. He thinks back to the old, traditional diplomacy: