Throughout the twentieth century Americans have been on a seemingly endless search for that device or approach to international relations which would remove from such relations the harsh reality of tension and violence. At various times during this period arbitration treaties, international organization, collective security, international law, information programs, economic aid and technical assistance nave been set forth as the keys that would finally unlock the door to perpetual peace. In the era since World War II, the device of exchange of persons has often occupied the center of the stage of hope. Its right to that central position was reaffirmed when President Dwight D. Eisenhower placed the considerable weight of his personal prestige and high office behind the concept of peoples-to-peoples diplomacy.

From what perspective should we who are concerned with religion and international affairs view the current foreign policy situation? Two factors of overriding importance stand out. First is the movement away from a bi-polar world and toward the pluralization of the world; second is the power shift, doubtless limited in character, but no less real, favoring the USSR at the expense of the U. S. A. (Henry A. Kissinger flatly asserts that “the missile gap in the period 1961-65 is now unavoidable”; and it is recognized by all competent observers that the USSR is leading the U. S. A. two to one in scientists under age thirty-five.)