International Relations

Short Introductions

by Stephanie Lawson

International Relations emerged as a distinct academic discipline in the early twentieth century as scholars and practitioners sought to address the causes of war and conditions for peace in a systematic and sustained way. Its philosophic foundations, however, draw on centuries of thinking about human nature, political authority and obligation, justice and injustice, and their implications for relations within and between political communities. Since then, IR has become one of the most important and dynamic fields of academic study in the contemporary period.

In this second edition, Stephanie Lawson retains a broad historical and contextual approach in introducing readers to the central themes and theoretical perspectives while also addressing key concerns in the contemporary period. These include the emergence of states and empires, theories ranging from classical realism and liberalism to postcolonial and ‘green’ theory, twentieth century international history, security and insecurity, global governance and world order, international political economy, globalization and the prospects for a ‘postinternational’ world.

Written in an accessible narrative style, this book will appeal to students at undergraduate level and beyond, including those undertaking postgraduate coursework study in IR with little or no previous academic training in the field.

Genres: Nonfiction, Politics

200 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2003

About the author

Professor in Macquarie University's Department of Modern History, Politics and International Relations, Sydney, Australia

Reviews

[Justin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought it covered all bases on the theory of IR. Would have liked more application on case studies though

[Stephen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a textbook for an introductory class in IR. Unfortunately it is written in a far too advanced style for this purpose. It is more a detailed academic survey for a reader with a strong background in the social sciences. It contains a lots of references to ideas from other authors using jargon often not fully explained. So I found it less than optimal. If you are just starting out pick, up something a little more basic.

[Philip C Beeby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great introduction to international relations. A very nicely written book, that conveys some complex ideas in an easy to read fashion.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much information packed in one book, my head hurts

[Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

For uni (International Relations course)

[Anca C]

Se vede ca nu e scrisa de romani, un limbaj usor si accesibi. Foarte bine scrisa, atat pentru studentii la relatii internationale cat si pentru cei de la drept, daca vor sa inteleaga mai bine contextul dreptului international public.

[Hannibal Vad · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid and easy-to-read introduction to the field of International Relations