The Evolution of International Society: A Comparative Historical Analysis

by Adam Watson, Barry Buzan (Introduction), Richard Little (Introduction)

This uniquely comprehensive historical study analyses and explains how international societies function. The author examines ancient city states and then looks in more detail at European society and worldwide contemporary society.

Genres: History, International Relations, Nonfiction, Politics, Academic

Paperback

First published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[John Jacobi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very much a grad student text. Where he knew his material he often pulled in settlements and historical moments without explaining them; where he didn’t know it as well he wrote a short and skimpy essay. Good overview for anyone interested in international relations and its historical roots, but probably could have functioned better as a long essay than a book.

[Dimitris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great analysis! It mixes History, Sociology and theory of International Relations to help you understand the concept of "international society" and how it was applied to all known international systems. The analysis of the European System, in particular, is amazing.

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adam Watson's The Evolution of International Society was among the first books I read during my International Relations studies. Watson traces the historical evolution of state systems, from ancient Sumeria to our modern global order, emphasizing the interplay between independence and order. His spectrum model ranging from sovereign independence to imperial dominance offers a powerful analytical tool for understanding international dynamics.
What stands out most is his exploration of legitimacy in power structures and his insistence that past systems offer critical lessons for today’s diplomacy. A foundational text for understanding the art and science of international relations.

[Pete Botjer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this book for graduate school. It is not my favorite. I felt that Watson was very one sided in his historical telling. At one point he brings up Persia’s profound influence on India but never brings it up again. And this happens on multiple occasions throughout the book. Why raise questions with no intention of answering them?

[Iphigenia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know if I'm going to pass this class in uni but the book was one of the best I had to read. Very informative and to-the-point!

[Ioannis Apostolopoulos]

Νεοταξίτικο βιβλίο!