International Relations: Perspectives, Controversies and Readings

Designed to be reader-friendly and engaging, this popular text provides a thorough, yet highly accessible introduction to international relations, combining broad coverage of essential theory, current issues, and real-world examples in a compact volume that avoids excessive detail and complexity.

Following a pair of introductory chapters on international history and politics, the text features 11 chapters that explore fundamental issues or controversies in international relations, such as power politics, war and democracy, human nature, free trade, inequality, globalization, humanitarian intervention, and terrorism.

The author approaches major topics using provocative questions such as “How should we respond to terrorism?” and an engaging “debate” format to capture student interest and encourage them to think critically, appreciate diverse perspectives, and consider the real-world applications of chapter concepts.

Each of the core chapters concludes with a unique Point of View section featuring two primary source readings that offer varied perspectives on an issue, enabling students to engage directly with current ideas and arguments in order to refine their own views.

Key terms are defined in a running glossary in the page margins, allowing students to identify important concepts easily, learn useful terms without interrupting their reading, and focus their study and review effectively.

In addition to updated content in nearly every chapter, the Fifth Edition features numerous new photos and up-to-date statistics reflecting the most current research and reporting.

Thoroughly revised based on the trends, theories, and discussions shaping the study of international relations today, including debates about whether American covert actions against democracies undermine democratic peace theory, Stephen Pinker’s thesis about human nature and declining global violence, and corruption as an obstacle to development.

Features numerous examples and issues drawn from important recent and ongoing international issues, including Syria’s alleged use of chemical weapons under customary international law, and Ukrainain denuclearization and its consequences given the country’s conflict with Russia.

New and expanded information is provided on crucial global issues such as climate change and global resources, including reference to the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Report and the theory of peak oil.

Includes six all-new or thoroughly updated Point of View readings, inviting students to consider opposing perspectives on key issues to help frame and challenge their own opinions.