I sort of imagined the AI would only research the diplomatic techs that suit its game temperment. For instance, if the AI's trait is that of an 'aggressor', then it would research just enough techs that allow it to enter a non-aggression treaty with a player -- while still prepairing to conduct an 'Operation Barbarossa' against him. Or perhaps, give the AI enough clout to influence a vote by pounding a shoe on their delegation's desk at some General Assembly.
In any event, I was sort of hoping that Diplomacy would add yet another weapon (treachery) to my arsenal in destroying my foes. As such, perhaps an 'aggressor' AI would only need to reaserch a select few diplomatic techs that best aid its ambitions for a Solar Empire. Actually, since the human player won't know the trait of the AI, a few false postives (peaceful overtures) from the AI might just lull me into a false sense of security -- I doubt it, but who knows.
