The notion of engagement underlies the history of diplomacy, and as such represents the most important tool in a foreign policy practitioner's armoury. Today, improved communications are allowing citizens of democratic nations to see the real nature of the states with which their governments engage, including those with dire records concerning the human rights of their own citizens. The idea of 'constructive engagement' is forwarded by governments as a method whereby pressure can be brought to bear on these countries to improve their record on human rights, while diplomatic and economic contacts can be maintained. But does this approach achieve positive outcomes? To-answer this question, this book offers a critical evaluation of one of the best known examples of constructive engagement - the Reagan administration's policy towards South Africa. North America: Ohio U Press; South Africa: Jacana