Page:Paul Samuel Reinsch - Secret Diplomacy, How Far Can It Be Eliminated? - 1922.djvu/179

 == XII. THE PUBLIC AND DIPLOMACY ==

IN consequence of the startling developments in diplomacy which preceded and accompanied the great war, the relation of democracy to diplo- macy has been earnestly discussed of late, par- ticularly in Great Britain.

When considering this important matter, the distinction between the methods of diplomacy and diplomatic policies should be borne in mind for /the sake of clearness of thought. The develop- ment of public opinion, the disappearance of purely dynastic aims of state action, and the con- stantly broadening outlook of political life, have led to the elimination of most of the cruder meth- ods of deception and intrigue. But two questions still remain: Should diplomatic negotiations be carried on in the public view, that is with con- stant and full information given to the public or parliament, on all important details? and, Should the diplomatic policy of a democratic government at all times be kept fully before the representative bodies, and the public?