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6 Best Books on Diplomacy

You find yourself in an awkward situation at work. Your colleague is defensive, your boss is upset, and you are caught in the middle, just trying not to escalate an already uncomfortable situation. It turns out that diplomacy doesn't just belong to those who wear suits and run the world. Diplomacy is for anyone who wants to resolve conflicts with kindness and civility.

Books on diplomacy teach you to read the room, find common ground, and get what you need without turning every disagreement into a battle. These six books on diplomacy will show you how.

Books on diplomacy that teach you to communicate better

Books on diplomacy help you handle disagreements without drama. You learn to stay calm when emotions run high, which matters more than you'd think. Most arguments escalate because someone got defensive or aggressive at the wrong moment.

'The Anatomy of Peace' by The Arbinger Institute shows why conflicts spiral out of control. The book explains that we often perceive others as obstacles rather than people. Once you shift that perspective, conversations change. You stop trying to win and start trying to understand. That's when real progress happens.

Pete Buttigieg's 'Trust' breaks down how leaders build credibility through honesty and consistency. Trust isn't something you demand — you earn it by showing up when it's hard and admitting when you're wrong. Buttigieg shares stories from his time as mayor, where he had to rebuild relationships with communities that felt ignored. His approach was simple: listen first, act second.

Barbara Demick's 'Nothing to Envy' takes you inside North Korea through the eyes of ordinary people. It's not a typical diplomacy book, but it reveals how isolation and propaganda destroy human connection. The stories show what happens when communication breaks down completely. You realize that even small acts of openness matter more than grand gestures.

Best books on diplomacy for handling tough situations

The best books on diplomacy give you tools for moments when everything feels impossible. They clearly show that staying composed is not easy when someone attacks your ideas or questions your judgment.

'Do What You Are' by Paul D. Tieger, Barbara Barron, and Kelly Tieger connects personality types to communication styles. You discover why some people need detailed explanations while others just want the bottom line. When you understand these differences, you stop wasting energy on approaches that never worked in the first place. You adapt your message to fit the person in front of you.

Niccolò Machiavelli's 'The Prince' is a foundational work on political tactics and diplomacy. Machiavelli demonstrates how a leader can hold onto power, take advantage of allies and enemies, and apply both principled and pragmatic techniques at the same time. 

Machiavelli mentions the importance of taking a dispassionate view of the situation, acting judiciously, and managing the behavior of others in order to maintain stability and power. You learn to anticipate reactions, protect yourself from manipulation, and recognize when someone's playing games.

These books on diplomacy matter because they prepare you for real scenarios — not hypothetical ones. You'll face coworkers who undermine you, friends who betray your confidence, and family members who push your buttons. 

Diplomacy isn't about being nice all the time. It's about knowing when to stand firm and when to step back. It's about reading people accurately and responding in ways that protect your goals without unnecessary collateral damage.

The Anatomy of Peace

by The Arbinger Institute

4.7 (1883 reviews)

What is The Anatomy of Peace about?

"The Anatomy of Peace" by The Arbinger Institute is a transformative book that delves into the root causes of conflict and offers a profound approach to resolving it. Through a captivating narrative, the book explores the power of shifting our mindset from a self-centered perspective to one of empathy and understanding. It provides practical tools and insights to help individuals and communities foster peace, heal relationships, and create lasting change.

Who should read The Anatomy of Peace

  • Individuals seeking to understand the root causes of conflict.

  • Leaders and managers looking for effective conflict resolution strategies.

  • Anyone interested in fostering peace and harmony in relationships.

Trust

by Pete Buttigieg

4.8 (1959 reviews)

What is Trust about?

In "Trust: America's Best Chance," the author delves into the importance of trust in rebuilding and strengthening the United States. Pete Buttigieg explores how trust is the foundation for progress, unity, and effective governance. Drawing from his own experiences as a former mayor and presidential candidate, Buttigieg offers insightful perspectives on how trust can be restored in a divided nation, ultimately presenting a compelling vision for a more inclusive and prosperous America.

Who should read Trust

  • Citizens seeking a fresh perspective on rebuilding trust in America.

  • Political enthusiasts interested in Pete Buttigieg's vision for trust.

  • Individuals looking for practical solutions to restore faith in democracy.

Global Response

by based on articles by Vox, BBC, The New York Times, The Guardian, Vice, Politico, and Radio Liberty

Read the summary

What is Global Response about?

"Global Response" is a thought-provoking compilation of articles from reputable sources such as Vox, BBC, The New York Times, The Guardian, Vice, Politico, and Radio Liberty. This book delves into pressing global issues, offering a comprehensive analysis of the world's most critical challenges. From climate change to political unrest, the book provides a well-rounded perspective on the complex issues shaping our world today. It is a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the global landscape.

Who should read Global Response

  • Individuals interested in understanding global politics and current affairs.

  • Journalists and researchers seeking comprehensive analysis of global events.

  • Policy makers and diplomats looking for insights into international relations.

Nothing to Envy

by Barbara Demick

4.7 (6200 reviews)

What is Nothing to Envy about?

"Nothing to Envy: Ordinary Lives in North Korea" offers a gripping and eye-opening account of life in one of the world's most secretive and oppressive regimes. Through the personal stories of six North Korean citizens, journalist Barbara Demick unveils the harsh realities of poverty, propaganda, and political control that shape their everyday existence. This powerful narrative sheds light on the resilience and determination of ordinary people living under an authoritarian regime, providing a rare glimpse into a hidden world.

Who should read Nothing to Envy

  • Individuals interested in gaining insight into the lives of ordinary North Koreans.

  • History enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of North Korea's society.

  • Those curious about the human stories behind North Korea's political regime.

Do What You Are — Discover the Perfect Career for You Through the Secrets of Personality Type

by Paul D. Tieger, Barbara Barron, Kelly Tieger

4.4 (889 reviews)

What is Do What You Are — Discover the Perfect Career for You Through the Secrets of Personality Type about?

This book offers a unique approach to finding the ideal career by exploring the secrets of personality type. Written by renowned authors, it guides readers through a comprehensive understanding of their own personality traits and how they align with various career paths. By providing practical advice and insightful tips, this book empowers individuals to make informed decisions and pursue fulfilling careers that truly match their unique strengths and preferences.

Who should read Do What You Are — Discover the Perfect Career for You Through the Secrets of Personality Type

  • Individuals seeking guidance in finding their ideal career path.

  • Professionals looking to understand how personality type influences career choices.

  • Students and graduates wanting to make informed career decisions.

The Prince

by Niccolò Machiavelli

4.7 (5075 reviews)

What is The Prince about?

"The Prince" is a political treatise written by an Italian author during the Renaissance period. This influential book explores the nature of power and the strategies rulers should employ to maintain and expand their authority. Drawing from historical examples and Machiavelli's own experiences, it offers practical advice on leadership, diplomacy, and the manipulation of public opinion. Controversial for its ruthless approach, "The Prince" remains a thought-provoking guide to the complexities of governance.

Who should read The Prince

  • Aspiring politicians seeking insights into the art of leadership.

  • History enthusiasts interested in Renaissance political philosophy.

  • Individuals curious about the dark realities of power dynamics.