Realism and International Relations (Themes in International Relations)
Cambridge University Press, 1/12/2008
EAN 9780521597524, ISBN10: 0521597528
Paperback, 240 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 1.5 cm
Language: English
Originally published in English
Realism and International Relations provides students with a critical yet sympathetic survey of political realism in international theory. Using six paradigmatic theories - Hans Morgenthau, Kenneth Waltz, the Prisoners' Dilemma, Thucydides, Machiavelli, and Hobbes - the book examines realist accounts of human nature and state motivation, international anarchy, system structure and the balance of power, international institutions, and morality in foreign policy. Donnelly argues that common realist propositions not only fail to stand up to scrutiny but are rejected by many leading realists as well. He argues that rather than a general theory of international relations, realism is best seen as a philosophical orientation or research program that emphasizes - in an insightful yet one-sided way - the constraints imposed by individual and national egoism and international anarchy. Containing chapter-by-chapter guides to further reading and discussion questions for students, this book offers an accessible and lively survey of the dominant theory in International Relations.
Acknowledgements
Introduction
1. The realist tradition
2. Human nature and state motivation
3. Anarchy, hierarchy and order
4. System, structure and balance of power
5. Institutions and international society
6. Morality and foreign policy
Conclusion
the nature and contribution of realism
Selected recommended readings
References
Index.