In considering United States foreign policy after Vietnam, Shriver argues that detente is not good enough. Instead, common existence must be sought. Solutions to such problems as energy production, overpopulation, and food supply require international cooperation. Shriver acknowledges the Soviet Union's desire to spread communism, yet insists that the desire for peace between the two countries is sufficiently strong to overcome it. He celebrates the quality of life in the U.S. Our country has not lost face globally due to Vietnam, only to itself. Finally, he urges changing foreign policy to focus on the needs of people in other nations rather than viewing them as outsiders with conflicting interests.