Theories of International Relations

This book is a comprehensive guide to theories of International Relations (IR). It introduces eighteen theories by examining the work of a representative theorist allowing students to understand the intellectual traditions and contexts for each theory. The chapters are all written to a common template: The introductory section provides readers with a basic understanding of the genesis of a given theory by locating it within an intellectual tradition, paying particular attention to the historical-political context of theory building. The second section elaborates on the theory as formulated by the selected representative theorist. Following the description of the core theoretical arguments, the third section turns to theoretical variations, examining the subdivisions of a given theory and conceptual overlaps, further developments and internal critique. The fourth section scrutinizes the main criticisms emanating from other theoretical perspectives and highlights points of contact with recent research in IR. The fifth and final section consists of an annotated bibliography to develop students' understanding. Embracing a broad range of mainstream traditional theories as well as emerging and critical perspectives, this is an original and ground-breaking textbook for students of international relations.

Siegfried Schieder is Jean Monnet postdoctoral Fellow of European University Institute, Italy.

Manuela Spindler is Professor of International Relations and International Relations Theory at the German Open Business School and the Graduate School of Global Politics at the Free University of Berlin.