by Chris Brown (Author), Chris Brown (Author), Chris Brown (Author), K. Ainley (Contributor)
The fourth edition of this well-established and popular text has been fully updated to take account of developments in the field of International Relations and recent world events. The authors provide systematic coverage of the classical concerns of International Relations theory - power, national interest, foreign policy and war - alongside analysis of the impact of globalization on security, governance and the world economy. A central concern throughout is to show how the theories the authors outline and assess can help make sense of the puzzle of current world events, from the rise of Russia and China, the downturn in the world economy and the changing role of America to the challenges of identity politics and human rights. Clear and accessible, but also critical and penetrating, Understanding International Relations provides a uniquely readable and thought-provoking introduction to the theory and practice of international relations.
Format: Paperback
Pages: 321
Edition: 4th ed. 2009
Publisher: Palgrave
Published: 15 Apr 2009
ISBN 10: 0230213111
ISBN 13: 9780230213111
Book Overview: Reviews of previous editions 'It is entirely characteristic that Chris Brown's text is unlike anybody else's; it is equally characteristic that it is written with a zest, a pace and a sense of fun that is sadly missing from much of the discipline as a whole. Students - and their teachers - will gain a great deal from it. They will also have a good time!' - N.J. Rengger, Political Studies '[A] very appealing book... The text succeeds in giving a clear account of all the main theoretical possibilities and, in a non-judgemental but not uncritical way, setting them in context... I can think of no book more likely to succeed in persuading a sceptical undergraduate - someone convinced of the existence of a self-evident world of facts - that not only is a knowledge of theory necessary to understand international relations, but it is fun.' - James Mayall, Review of International Studies