ABSTRACT
This introduction presents some key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book offers more general insights for a development studies audience. It brings the chronological and thematic stories together in a brief Epilogue that reiterates the key themes. It interrogates the fundamental dilemma that arises when humanitarian aspirations confront the need to generate democratic legitimacy. The book investigates how politicians and aid administrators have made the policy case for the Australian aid program. Australia has been giving foreign aid for well over half a century. To investigate the rises and falls of Australian aid over a 40-year period, the author adopts an approach that focuses on 'court politics' and the beliefs and practices of key decision-makers in particular. The chapter shows how aid has been used to support different conceptualisations of Australia's place in the world; these relate to: national security, enlightened self-interest, being a good international citizen, and being a regional partner.
