While both stances are consistent with Kissinger’s brand of realism, intended to prioritize peace over justice, Hitchens sees more selfish motivations.

Hitchens says Kissinger feels personally endangered by the threat of universal jurisdiction. Though Hitchens admits that Kissinger is unlikely to be tried as a war criminal, Hitchens maintains that the fear of possible prosecution or involvement in civil action is on Kissinger’s mind. Indeed, Kissinger left France after a French judge issued a summons for the former secretary to be questioned about the disappearance of French citizens in Chile.

The claim that Kissinger’s fear influenced his political argument stems from a broader inquiry Hitchens makes into Kissinger’s celebrity status—an inquiry that relates closely to Kissinger’s new book.

“The thing which irritates me most generally, is the extent to which because of his celebrity, Kissinger gets away with things,” Hitchens said. “His actions are judged by reputation, not the other way around,” Hitchens said.

Kissinger’s international consulting work at his firm Kissinger Associates is a product of this reputation, Hitchens says.

Reading Kissinger’s book, one gets the feeling that Hitchens’ criticism should serve as an important warning. Though the elder statesman’s eyes may be fading his readers’ should remain as critical as ever.

—Staff writer David H. Gellis can be reached at gellis@fas.harvard.edu.