Book provides often times an objective view of global politics, but on issues there have been instances where some authors refer to their personal experiences as a way to open up debates and introduce paradoxes which in some ways impact the overall bias on the issues introduced. International Relations (17 reviews) Stephen McGlinchey, University of the West of England Copyright Year: 2016 ISBN 13: 9781910814185 Publisher: E-International Relations Language: English Formats Available PDF Conditions of Use Attribution-NonCommercial CC BY-NC Reviews Learn more about reviews. I wish the first four chapters of the basics section were covered much better. It seems that the editor chose breath over depth. This book is not worth using just because it is open access. The jargon and technical terminology used is clearly defined in language accessible to our students. Mukesh Kapila CBE is Professor Emeritus of Global Health and Humanitarian Affairs at the University of Manchester. 5. In a couple of rare instances, the simplified presentation might be construed as inaccurate or, at least, controversial. Instead, taking international practices seriously spells out the many faces of world politics, including power and security, trade and finance, strategy, institutions and organizations, resources, knowledge and discourse, etc. I suppose that faculty members adopting this book can create their own glossaries and materials. Each chapter has a separate author but it does begin by making a connection to other chapters. As mentioned previously, the inclusion pre-state history that focus on Europe only, makes one wonder about areas outside of Europe. al. Some chapters make effective use of case studies, but others do not employ cases as an explanatory technique. practical foundations of international relations Also noteworthy, the book contains no finding aids (index, glossary) which would make it cumbersome to students trying to use this in an introductory course. It's easy to read, however. However, compared to other introduction to International Relations textbooks, the treatment of conflict and explanations of war is not as comprehensive as I would need for an Introduction to IR course. Why should we not be asking them to understand challenging terms? Starting with boldfaced terms and a glossary would be good. Jessica Neafie, Assistant Professor of International Relations, Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan. Chapters make effective use of section headings and the text is easily and readily divisible. Sometimes with one or two writers the content can be limited by the writers knowledge and interest. Reviewed by Michelle Allendoerfer, Assistant Professor, The George Washington University on 12/17/20, The book covers a very wide and comprehensive set of topics in a concise way. Unfortunately, its relevance (like the relevance of so many political science textbooks) will take a hit due to the global pandemic. However we have made available a full chapter excerpt via the free PDF download button (above). The book lacks clearly written definitions of terms (e.g. This is particularly key for an international relations textbook with such a heavy emphasis on current world affairs. As mentioned above, I appreciate that the book acknowledges the ways that IR as a discipline traditionally takes a Western approach. Supported by helpful case studies, key insights and key term features, the book will enable its readers to navigate the complexities of global politics. The accuracy varies from chapter to chapter. As a reader in the field, it seemed to me that this was a little strict and that a good professor could easily reorganize the book in order to, for example, assign an "issues" chapter along with a "basics" chapter in order to illustrate some points. terminology is very clear and almost too simplistic. It clearly covers all of the major themes, theories, concepts and trends in an extremely dynamic subject matters. Helpful subheadings throughout. The book at least touches on all of the subjects that I routinely cover in my introductory course on international relations, but the coverage of the subjects vary greatly. read more. International Relations Theory - E-International Relations read more. Foundations of International Relations delivers a comprehensive explanation of International Relations that includes a thorough introduction to critical theories and non-western viewpoints alongside established IR theories and narratives. Both the terminology and framework of the chapters is internally consistent. James Arvanitakis is the Executive Director of the Australian American Fulbright Commission and an Adjunct Professor at the Institute for Culture and Society at Western Sydney University. Poverty and Wealth James Arvanitakis and David J. Hornsby As is chapters do not necessarily follow each other. Possibly, a glossary can be provided at the end of book so that students can refer to definitions of main terms easily. There are some basic style issues for some of the authors, though. While the basic information conveyed in each chapter will remain relevant, I would want to know the editor's intentions for updating the text before implementing it in a course. Also, most books also provide a multiplicity of weblinks and other online sources throughout each chapter. $130.00 Other new and used from $119.08. It would not be a difficult read for an undergraduate level course. She also explicates the ways in which the levels of analysis framework determines the findings of researchers working in IR, as well as how it affects and is effected by the evolving ambitions of the discipline. Each write in this book obviously bring considerable in depth, current knowledge about the special subject in IR. Realism in Waltz's view was severely limited, as where other classic disciplines of international relations. Any I would organize is differently in terms of the chapters. I would not classify this as a comprehensive text of introductory international relations. The text did not appear to have major grammatical errors. The book at least touches on all of the subjects that I routinely cover in my introductory course on international relations, but the coverage of the subjects vary greatly. Stephen McGlinchey is a Senior Lecturer in International Relations at the University of the West of England, Bristol (UWE Bristol). A few of the chapters reference current events or contemporary individuals, and thus will appear dated soon. The writers of each chapter appear to cover all of the themes that have been traditionally a part of IR and frankly have made major steps in incorporating today's issues as such connectivity, technology and cyberissues, terrorism, religion and culture factors, climate and environmental and the emergence of new power bases in Asia and the Mideast. Stephen McGlinchey has brought together a fantastic collection of authors who together present a wide-ranging, critical and accessible introduction to International Relations. Obviously, I am excited about using this book to teach my class in International Relations. Critical Approaches to International Relations: Philosophical Foundations and Current Debates explores the achievements of a wide variety of critical approaches in International Relations theory, discusses the barrage of criticism and. Traditional Theories of International Relations | UNU-CRIS The professor using this text would almost certainly need to supplement it with additional readings, and would probably also need to put a good deal of thought into designing exercises, lectures, tests, and study guides based on this material. Moreover, each chapter begins with a few sentences tying it to the preceding chapter(s). EU customers: we regret we cannot currently supply print inspection copies via the website but eBooks are available.If you would like an eBook and the option is not displayed below, please email [emailprotected] with your request. There are no interface errors, but the book is entirely page after page of similar-looking text. The book tries admirably to include many perspectives and address issues of global relevance. The book is written clearly, if dispassionately. The textbook is up-to-date. Robbie Shilliam is a Professor of International Relations at Johns Hopkins University. Reviewed by Michael McNeal, Adjunct Instructor, Metropolitan State University of Denver on 10/24/19, See review pasted into the text window below. I saw no problems with cultural insensitivity or exclusion of any group. read more. Instructors using this text will find that it is flexible and that sections can be assigned at different points within the course. The textbook does not provide and index or glossary, International Relations is an edited volume that attempts to cover all of the common themes in an introduction to IR course. The textbook could benefit from some graphic representations. The key theories and approaches to be examined include: realism and neo-realism; theories about war, security and the use of force in international relations; classical liberalism, globalization, and transformation in world politics; theories about inter-state co-operation and transnationalism; the concept of international society; constructivism Readers can infer definitions from context, however. Because the chapters can each stand alone, I think it's a great resource for instructors to be able to assign one or a few chapters to supplement other materials in the course. It has a bibliography, but throughout the text, is uses very few references, even when it seems obvious that the reader would like to know more. Neo-Realism is designed as re-examination, a second tier explanation that fills in the gaps classic theories neglected. There were no images or charts or other display features, however. I don't think it has culturally offensive parts. I did have some issue with some concepts or historical developments being explained out-of-order or across multiple chapters, for example the history and development of the UN--which is spread across chapters 4, 5, and 6--and the Cold War, which is discussed piecemeal in multiple chapters. China's top leader, Xi Jinping, has rolled out the red carpet for President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva of Brazil, lauding him as "an old friend of the Chinese people.". the edited volume obviously needs more charts, figures along with images. Of course, I have already begun researching supplemental material in the form of pictures, graphs, weblinks to supplement this outstanding reading. Anthony F Lang, Professor of International Political Theory, University of St Andrews, UK. There is some non-standard use of concepts. The book is a persuasive review of the theoretical foundations of international relations studies. A handy Getting Started section prior to the first chapter guides the reader on how to navigate the text, elaborating on some of the fields jargonwhich is used sparinglyas well as on the use of academic citations. Students are brought on an engaging intellectual journey through a range of contending perspectives and issues, whilst being encouraged to think critically throughout. Connectivity and Exploitation in the Digital Age Clare Stevens and Andreas Haggman. It sends the message to the reader that "here are these theories, let me show you how irrelevant they are with the rest of this book.) This is ridiculously boring and very far out of touch from how students actually learn. support open access publishing. 12. In addition, a complete version of an earlier edition of this book from 2017 is available free on E-International Relations though note the 2017 version does not have the full range of chapters, or features, of the 2022 version. I appreciate the editor's note indicating that these items were sacrificed in order to produce a free text, but I feel there were some extremely low- or no-cost ways of enhancing the text that would have been beneficial. That being said, I think that the chapters on international organizations and the environment would be two excellent standalone chapters that I could assign in any of my classes. This edited volume provides a comprehensive yet not so well integrated coverage of the issues and theories that define the international relations field today. The philosophy underpinning this book is that these things can be a distraction. Consistency in terms of chapter format, however, is lacking. The book is written clearly and at a level that undergraduate college students should have no problems There is no assumption that the reader has been exposed to the field of IR. Reviewed by Azamat Sakiev, Assistant Professor, Pennsylvania State University on 2/1/18, The textbook is comprehensive in range of concepts it covers. This course provides a broad introduction to the study of international relations. Ringmar then focuses upon how this system was universalized over centuries via European imperialist conquests and colonialism. Traditional and Middle Ground Theories Stephen McGlinchey and Dana Gold This innovative and well-written textbook takes students on an exciting historical, theoretical, geographical and thematic journey of International Relations. Conference on International Politics, May 7-8, 1954 Appendix 2. I will, unfortunately, not be adopting this text as I had hoped. Some of the other chapters did not seem as relevant and might have been better left to a textbook for a higher level IR course. Since I use introductory courses to introduce students to basic research and citations procedures, I like texts that are very good at this. Featuring a combination of chapters authored by leading scholars, researchers and practitioners from around the world, this textbook takes into account the historical development of international relations and the web of dynamics that forms the subject, resulting in a clear analysis of the . Realism, also known as political realism, is a view of international politics that stresses its competitive and conflictual side. In general, the text is consistent in terms of terminology and framework, although inevitably multiple authors get repetitive. The remaining chapter contributions include introductions to a broad range of important but more specific subjects, including global political economy, religion and culture, global poverty and wealth, protecting people, giving people a voice, communications technology, terrorism, the environment, hunger, global security, and a concluding chapter on doing IR in a relevant way in the contemporary world. The chapters are consistent in length and style. While the text provides a good picture of the field overall, each chapter covers a distinct topic or issue and stands on its own. It is mostly up to date and relevant. I might not be the smartest guy, but I think that I already deliver smart introductory lectures. 1. The historical context given to today's political world is also a bit shaky. Jindal Global University. The content is accurate and given the general relevance of the text to the subjects covered the text should enjoy a fair degree of longevity. The book is very comprehensive. Foundations of International Relations delivers a comprehensive explanation of International Relations that includes a thorough introduction to critical theories and non-western viewpoints alongside established IR theories and narratives. Yet another compilation of IR chapters from a very western oriented set of authors. The first section of the book, "The Basics," did not cover the basics in as much detail as I would have liked to see. 18. Obviously, with any edited volume, the tone of the book will change from chapter to chapter based on each author's writing style. Most, but not all, chapters are designed to first briefly introduce the topic or concept, followed by illustrative cases to help the readers comprehension. This book is designed to be a Day 0' introduction to International Relations. There should Countries in the global south are presented as object of diplomacy, or as the sites of problems like famine, rather than presented as active participants in globalization (I guess if they'd be willing the use the term globalization, they could have avoided this problem). I imagine that it would be difficult for students to figure out what points were important to focus on. However, there is not much on IR theory. Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World: University of London. The Invention of International Relations Theory I think it's pretty much well written and organized. David J. Hornsby is Associate Vice-President (Teaching and Learning) and Professor at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University. This product is usually dispatched within 1 week, Free US delivery on orders $35 or over. International Women's Health and Human . The text lacks a glossary, boldfaced terms, and an index. Some of the topics are presented in an odd order and appeared repetitive across chapters. Students learn best when their texts have clear, simple, and accessible organization and prose. The book presents an impressive and well-thought pedagogical outline leaving students critically engaged and encouraged to apply their new knowledge of IR to specific, concrete cases. An excellent educational resource. Unlike typical textbooks, there are no boxes, charts, pictures or exercises. My sense is that this omission emerges from its European perspective. Despite the daunting task it takes on, this textbook does an impressive job of The degree track appeals to students with an intense interest in and desire for work in professional international fields and/or study at the doctoral level. read more. Many perspectives are included when issues are being examined. The authors make a concentrated effort to make this text relevant to twenty-first century politics. The chapter then employs each theoretical framework to assess by the lights of each theory, respectively, the United Nations. As it stands the textbook is rather fragmented. It begins with the contents of international law, including the aim of preserving international order and providing for greater justice in foreign affairs between states. Foundations of International Relations - Bloomsbury Perhaps the biggest inconsistency is quality: some chapters, especially chapter 11 on Protecting People, stand out as sharp and cleara highwater mark for pedagogical effectiveness. The chapter on food insecurity has a "bottom up perspective" that gives examples from everyday life in a number of countries and is designed to draw in readers rather than overwhelm them with global statistics. Despite these efforts, there remains much scope for further diversity: even as case illustrations from the Global South are present, Western examples still form the majority. The chapter on Pax Americana is also about security. Gnter Walzenbach is a Senior Lecturer in European Politics at the University of the West of England, Bristol (UWE Bristol). 11. International Law Knut Traisbach Indeed, the accessible and conversational, yet informative and interesting, narrative style serves to distinguish the text from other introductory IR textbooks. Stephen Hill, Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, University of Edinburgh, UK, Registered Office: 50 Bedford Square, London, WC1B 3DP. read more. McGlitchys volume is comprehensive thematically, but certain sections would have benefited from deeper and more sustained analysis, for instance in the section on International Relations Theory. Featuring a combination of chapters authored by leading scholars, researchers and practitioners from around the world, this textbook takes into account the historical development of international relations and the web of dynamics that forms the subject, resulting in a clear analysis of the field from . In this sense, I don't think that the book is written in a way that's appropriate for a first-year student being introduced to a topic. The chapter on Pax Americana is also about security. While the preface indicates that there are "no boxes, charts, pictures, or exercises" because "these things can be a distraction", I find that in particular to be counterproductive. The book is mostly well structured. They will find it challenging and rewarding in equal measure. On one side of the controversy was a revival of the school of realism, known as neorealism, which emerged with the publication of Kenneth Waltz's Theory of International Politics in 1979. Still, I believe it's highly consistent, and any small discrepancy across authors would not generate any confusion to students. It is truly attentive to the multiplicity of (state and non-state) actors in global politics, as well as non-Western approaches. However, there is no index or glossary. Even having authors use bold font for key terms would facilitate student learning. We'll see exactly how much effort is required when I begin developing the syllabus for next semester. Carmen Gebhard provides an introduction to the levels of analysis method of international relations theorizing. In all, I like this book, but it could have been made better with a few tweaks. Mostly yes, materials are clearly written. Reviewed by George Amedee, Professor, SUNO on 12/12/19, The book is very comprehensive. Fighting Cancer with Cancer: Demystifying Taliban's ISIL-K drama Introduction to International Relations: Foundations and Concepts Several chapters use case studies and examplesaccurately describedto illustrate complex ideas and abstract concepts. Your School account is not valid for the United States site. The five main theories of international relations. 17, as it relates to U.S. foreign policy). The chapters are short, with simple paragraphs and clear sentences placing the reader inside crucial issues and debates so they can understand how things work, and where they fit in the world around them. In its relatively short chapters, it manages to introduce readers to both traditional and critical perspectives. This volume offers a comprehensive evaluation of the concept of global order, with a particular emphasis on the role of regional organisations within global governance institutions such as the United Nations. I will certainly include some of these chapters as supplements to my intro to IR course. The narrative arc forms a complete circle, taking readers from no knowledge to competency. Greater effort to align the discussion within Part Twos chapters to the basic themes elaborated in Part One might have improved the books organization. This is an important and fruitful area of debate but the chapter does not go into it and there is not enough theory in the book for students to recognize and make sense of it. University of Minnesota, 330 Wulling Hall, 86 Pleasant Street S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55455, Except where otherwise noted, content on this site is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License. Hardcover. The Theoretical and Practical Importance of a Theory of International Relations, by Hans J. Morgenthau Appendix 3. I didn't see anything offensive, but I think there could've been more attention paid to non-Western examples. As a branch of the Middle East-based Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), ISIL-Khorasan (ISIL-K) emerged in late 2014 in southern and eastern Afghanistan. It has a somewhat Eurocentric bend as there is little on colonialism or non-western examples or approaches. Foundations of international relations | WorldCat.org 10. International Political Economy Gnter Walzenbach Again, it is difficult with an edited volume to make sure everyone is on the same page in terms of terminology, but the editor did a great job of ensuring that the terms and ideas were used consistently across the chapters. It does well in covering traditional, enduring, and emerging issues and problems in international I did not find any obvious grammatical errors in the text. I did not identify any factual inaccuracies, although I would have liked more frequent citations. Same as above comment in "modularity". The chapter on Pax Americana is also about security. Contributors in Part One tried to present the logic behind the flow from one chapter to another, but it is still odd to put a chapter on Diplomacy right after chapter 1 and before the chapter introducing the main actors of IR. But the book refuses to use "buzzwords" like "globalization" because the authors do not want to get "bogged down in big debates" around complex terms. Summary: "An engaging introduction to the core concepts, theories, actors and issues in global politics. However, it requires a more explicit and systematic theoretical/conceptual framework to operate as a stand-alone text for an Introduction to IR class. The purpose and function of non-governmental organizations are similarly examined. See review pasted into the text window below. Stephen Hill, Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, University of Edinburgh, UK, Registered Office: 1385 Broadway, Fifth Floor, New York, NY 10018 USA. Foundations of International Relations is a wonderfully rich, yet highly accessible, introduction to International Relations, both as a subject and as a discipline. This introduction to International Relation is one of the most original and interesting to come to the market in a long while. Perhaps old information does not become obsolete, but new developments are always happening. As this book is published by Bloomsbury who have invested a substantial sum in producing the book to such a high quality E-International Relations is unable to offer a free-to-download version of the full book. As I mentioned earlier, the underlying theme seems to be that of globalization. International Relations is an edited volume that attempts to cover all of the common themes in an introduction to IR course. The more common but contested interpretation is that this is interest in security. provide students of international relations a broad and substantive introduction to the discipline. Bringing down the number of chapters would also help in fitting the text into a standard 15 week semester long classes (at least in North America). Supported by helpful case studies, key insights and key term features, the book will enable its readers to navigate the complexities of global politics. The textbook does not provide and index or glossary, but since it is available electronically looking up terms and words of interest is of no difficulty. Overall, well done, but not much freedom to use a chapter here or there or rearrange chapters to fit the desired flow of the course. It's an edited textbook written by multiple authors, and not necessarily perfectly consistent in depicting/describing historical events or explaining theories. I believe the accessibility will be refreshing for undergraduate students new to the field of IR and I appreciate the different perspectives the book brings with various authors. I look forward to adopting this book in the Spring- while there are some issues with the ability to design a course around it (ie the text itself isn't flexible to starting from a different point than the text does), I believe it is worth the effort. Clare Stevens is a Teaching Fellow in International Security with the Portsmouth Military Education team at the University of Portsmouth. could be better served if instructors provide/explain fundamental values of DEI in all human communities/societies as they cover culture issues in IR. Its underlying, yet subtle, theme is that of globalization, and globalization has taken a hit with the pandemic. Many chapters could be combined for a more streamlined presentation.