A way to show support for the peace movement
By having officials work behind the scenes, ping pong diplomacy allowed diplomats to conduct negotiations without public or political pressure.
What always begins as a way to rebel against the norm, counterculture, becomes the norm. Counterculture affects art, fashion, music, and behavior. Some examples are:
Iranian hostage crisis
A reason a hippie might have worn a T-shirt with Bob Dylan's picture on it is to show an approval of antiwar music.
Abortion rights.
Carter created the Department of Energy to reduce America's dependence on foreign energy.
Texas
food to make up for shortages
He did not seek normal relations with China