"The issue is are there things which are justifiably secret and ought to be kept secret, and there are," says former Ambassador Edward Rowell.

Some ethicists and philosophers say economic sanctions should be subject to the same moral scrutiny given to the use of military force and should require the same level of ethical justification as acts of war.

Former diplomat Thomas Farr is concerned the Obama administration has yet to fill this important position.

Stories about religion's role in US foreign policy, defining terrorism, and Mennonites and the national anthem were all in the news this past week.

The Holy See has played an active global role for centuries. It has permanent observer status at the United Nations and has all the rights of full UN membership except voting.

Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright has a new -- and some say surprising -- book out called "The Mighty and the Almighty." While many diplomats have traditionally held a very secular outlook on their work, Albright argues that decision makers need to do a better job of understanding religion's role in the world.

Read more of Kim Lawton's interview with Madeleine Albright about religion and foreign policy.

Read excerpts from Madeleine Albright's Book: The Mighty and the Almighty's