International Law and International Relations

Themes in International Relations

by David Armstrong, Theo Farrell, Helene Lambert

In this fully updated and revised edition, the authors explore the evolution, nature and function of international law in world politics and situate international law in its historical and political context. They propose three interdisciplinary 'lenses' (realist, liberal and constructivist) through which to view the role of international law in world politics and suggest that the concept of an international society provides the overall context within which international legal developments occur. These theoretical perspectives offer different ways of looking at international law in terms of what it is, how it works and how it changes. Topics covered include the use of force, international crimes, human rights, international trade and the environment. The new edition also contains more material on non-western perspectives, international institutions and non-state actors and a new bibliography. Each chapter features discussion questions and guides to further reading.

Genres: Law

362 pages, Paperback

First published September 17, 2007

Reviews

[Karl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good theoretical discussion of the historical development and political role of international law in world politics, using the conceptual lenses of realism, liberalism, and constructivism. The book charts the development of international law in areas such as the use of force, Human rights, international crimes, trade, and the environment. There is a special focus on the then-contemporary debates over the US-declared Global War on Terror and how the rules defining self defense, terrorism, insurgency, and intervention were in flux. Other events that get special attention are the Rwandan genocide, the establishment of the World Trade Organization, growing concerns over environmental degradation.

[Sharn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good book on the intersection between international law and international relations. At times it felt a little dense, but I never found myself bored by it. Provides just the right amount of detail and explains things very well. I can see why my professor has chosen, for many years now, to keep this as the required textbook for his subject.

[Rachel Matsuoka · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of THE best international law books I've ever had. It had a very progressive approach, and laid out key issues in an engaging manner. I would certainly recommend professors and to people interested in the topic.