"Diplomacy means all the wicked devices of the Old World, spheres of influence, balances of power, secret treaties, triple alliances, and, during the interim period, appeasement of Fascism"

Barbara Tuchman's quote critiques the standard practices and strategies of global relations, particularly noting their ethically unclear and typically troublesome nature. She refers to diplomacy as embodying "all the wicked devices of the Old World", signifying a critical viewpoint on how countries have traditionally managed their affairs. This declaration shows an uncertainty toward the often private and manipulative maneuvers that states have employed over centuries to preserve power and control.

The reference of "spheres of influence" alludes to the division of areas and areas into locations of political and economic control by effective nations. Such practices frequently neglect the sovereignty and self-determination of smaller states, leading to a hierarchical and unequal international order. This was particularly widespread throughout the age of colonialism and imperialism, where remote countries carved up lands to broaden their dominance.

Next, Tuchman criticizes the "balances of power", a tactical concept used to prevent any one country from becoming too strong and controling others. While aimed at preserving stability, this technique typically led to shifting alliances and encouraged military build-ups and arms races, possibly playing into the stress that caused disputes like the World Wars.

The reference to "secret treaties" underscores the lack of transparency and the deceptive negotiations conducted behind closed doors. These backroom arrangements, made away from public examination, typically resulted in betrayals and unexpected shifts in alliances, sowing mistrust among nations.

"Triple alliances" and intricate treaty systems are also inspected. These were official agreements in between multiple countries to support one another, which once again, while meaning to provide mutual security, frequently caught nations in conflicts not of their making, as seen in the web of alliances preceding World War I.

Finally, Tuchman criticizes the "appeasement of Fascism", especially reviewing the duration leading up to World War II. This indicates a policy of making concessions to dictatorial powers to avoid conflict, which notoriously stopped working with Nazi Germany.

Overall, Tuchman's observation provides a cautionary reflection on the darker aspects of diplomacy, prompting a reconsideration of how worldwide relations are performed to avoid repeating previous mistakes.