Introduction to international relations: theory and practice

How do we understand international relations in a globalized world? This clear and concise text takes as its starting point the theoretical frameworks that are the foundation of current IR. Joyce P. Kaufman explains and contextualizes the traditional theories, highlighting both their strengths and weaknesses. Her levels-of-analysis approach provides students with the basic tools for a more inclusive understanding of international politics by not forcing them to choose between competing theories. Instead, in a refreshing alternative to most of the current introductory-level texts, the book allows readers to view the globe as a complex place of multiple actors facing multiple issues. It concludes with cases of current events that will help students apply theories to real-world issues.

Introduction : international relations in a globalized world. Why international relations is important -- Why study IR? -- IR as a field of study -- The levels-of-analysis framework -- Broad theoretical perspectives -- International relations in a globalized world : The concept of the nation-state -- Forces of integration, disintegration, and self-determination -- Globalization : What is globalization? -- Globalization as historical phenomenon -- What does globalization mean for the study IR? -- Further readings -- Notes -- Theoretical overview. What is theory, and why is it important? Theory and international relations : some basic assumptions -- Concept of national interest -- Introduction levels of analysis : a framework for understanding international relations -- The "System" in the international system -- Power -- Introduction to basic IR theories. Realism and neo-/structural realism -- Neorealism/structural realism -- Limitations and critique of realism and neorealism -- Liberalism as a theoretical model -- Neoliberalism -- Limitations and critique of liberalism -- Constructivism -- Limitations and critique of constructivism -- Other theoretical approaches : Marxism -- Limi…