Synopses & Reviews
This introduction to international relations employs an exceptionally readable style that avoids jargon and abstract theory by blending basic concepts and vocabulary with a substantial amount of historical background and examples from current events. This readable style combined with new pedagogy allows readers to better understand how International Relations can and does affect their lives. Examines the many possible causes of war, ranging from human nature to aggressive states to international anarchy; Discusses the challenge of terrorism (especially the impact of 9/11 and its aftermath); Extensively covers the 2003 war and its aftermath in relation to oil and the Persian Gulf, the Soviet Union to Russian transition, Latin American and Africa, and Key figure profiles. For careers in International Relations, World Politics, and Globalization.
Synopsis
'
Written from Mike Roskin’s unique and engaging point-of-view, IR arms students with a direct and down-to-earth understanding of contemporary international relations. This text surveys key events in world history as well as fundamental theoretical concepts to trace the international system’s evolution and to assess its future. Putting the behavior of global actors into more complete context, IR helps students think critically about the challenges faced by the United States in an era of globalization.'
About the Author
Michael G. Roskin is Professor of Political Science at Lycoming College.
Table of Contents
THE COLD WAR COME AND GONE
1. Strange New World: Power and Systems in Transformation
2. America's Changing National Interests
3. "Wrong, Terribly Wrong": The U.S. and Vietnam
4. Can the U.S. Lead the World?
5. From Russia to the Soviet Union
6. From the Soviet Union Back to Russia
THE GLOBAL SOUTH
7. South Africa and the End of Colonialism
8. Eternal Warfare in the Holy Land
9. Oil and Turmoil: The Persian Gulf
10. The Troubled Americas: Our Neglected South
11. Economic Development: The Rich and the Poor
THE ETERNAL THREATS
12. Why Wars?
13. National Security: How States Protect Themselves
14. Nuclear Politics: The Bomb Is Here to Stay
15. The Challenge of Terrorism
THE ECONOMIC BLOCS
16. Europe Divorces America
17. Asia: China as Number One
18. The United States and Globalization
THE POLITICS OF A NEW WORLD
19. Diplomacy
20. International Law
21. The United Nations 22. Giving Peace a Chance