Contending Theories of International Relations: A Comprehensive Survey

by James E. Dougherty, Robert L. Pfaltzgraff

The most comprehensive and inclusive survey and synthesis available on the subject, this book makes the rich, ever-evolving complexity of IR theories accessible and fascinating for readers. Widely acclaimed for its vast scope, engaging writing style, and abundant citation of reference sources, the Fifth Edition has been thoroughly revised and updated to reflect the various paradigmatic and theoretical debates that have emerged since the end of the Cold War. The book incorporates the most significant current writings on all areas of theory from neorealism, neoliberal theory, postmodernism, and contructivism to globalization, ethnic conflict, international terrorism, and new approaches to deterrence amidst proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction technologies. For those interested in International Relations.

Genres: International Relations, Nonfiction, Politics, Textbooks

706 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1971

Reviews

[Steven Peterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Way back when, I taught courses in international politics at Alfred University (in Western New York). This book was a nice resource, helping me develop lectures in a variety of perspectives on international relations.

The value of the book? It's description of an array of theories as to how world politics operates. Among the views: environmental theories, realist theory, systems theory, economic theories of imperialism and war, nuclear deterrence theory, integration, decision-making theories, and game theory. Other approaches, as well, are considered, but the preceding listing provides examples as to what this book considers.

In its day, this was a great resource, summarizing key theoretical perspectives in the study of international politics.

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very dense read, but thorough.

[Michael DiCianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

The information contained is a great starting point to international relations theory. Maybe THE starting point.

That does not prevent the information contained from being written in prosaic, mind-numbing prose. It is the equivalent of counting the tiles on a bathroom floor.

[Sen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helped me a lot in college and I've been using this book as a reference since my first term

[Preetam Chatterjee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mission 2026: Binge reviewing (and rereading on occasion) all previous Reads, I was too slothful to review, back when I read them.

Dougherty’s survey is the kind of book that reveals its value only over time. On first reading, it can feel encyclopedic, even overwhelming. Rereading it now, I appreciated it as a map—a carefully drawn one—of intellectual conflict rather than consensus.

What makes the book compelling is its refusal to crown a single theory. Realism, liberalism, Marxism, behavioralism, and beyond are presented not as stages in progress but as competing lenses, each illuminating certain dynamics while obscuring others. Dougherty treats theories as living arguments, shaped by history and ideology.

The tone is admirably even-handed. There is no triumphalism, no dismissal. Instead, the book models a kind of disciplined pluralism. Understanding international relations, it suggests, requires intellectual flexibility rather than allegiance.

Rereading this felt like returning to a foundational grammar. The book doesn’t tell you what to think about world politics—it teaches you how thinkers disagree, and why those disagreements matter. In that sense, it remains an indispensable companion to anyone trying to make sense of global disorder.

Most recommended.

[Ardita · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't read this edition, but one of the earlier one, which was issued in mid 90s. It's an eye-opening book for international relations students back then. I don't know whether it's still "a must read book" among international relations scholar nowadays.

Pfaltzgraff and Dougherty delivered the book in a clear and concise manner.

[Victoria Lie]

This book was the worst and greatest thing. So many late nights with this baby, I almost miss it. Very dense but all the more thorough. Most treasured resource when I wrote my thesis on American Foreign Policy in regards to Syria as an undergrad.

I usually don't add books I've read for academic purposes here, but this one is special.

[Benedetta · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great reference book!

[Aziizubilly]

I have a homework for graduation