International Relations Theory ─ A Primer

Ideal as a brief main text for IR Theories courses or as a supplemental text for IR, American Foreign Policy, or Global Studies courses, International Relations Theory: A Primer covers the main definitions, concepts, arguments, and criticisms regarding the five predominant IR theories and approaches used in the field today: realism, liberalism, constructivism, economic structuralism, and feminism. Bridging the gap between theory and practice, it helps students understand and critique the theories and apply them to real-world issues.

FEATURES

Presents the essential elements, assumptions, and development of the top five IR theories used by researchers in the field

"Family Tree" graphics show how each theory contains within it a series of sub-theories that help explain specific phenomena

Applies each theory to the same two case studies: one on the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and the other on the World Trade Organization (WTO)

Includes summary tables for each case study in every theory chapter, providing quick summaries and visuals that connect the theories to the case studies

Ties the theories together in a concluding chapter, demonstrating their overlapping nature and highlighting each one's strengths and weaknesses as explanatory tools in IR

Elizabeth G. Matthews is Associate Professor of Political Science and Global Studies at California State University San Marcos. She is a coauthor of World Politics in a New Era, Sixth Edition (OUP, 2013) and the editor of The Israel-Palestine Conflict: Parallel Discourses(2011).

Rhonda L. Callaway is Associate Professor of Political Science at Sam Houston State University. She is the coeditor of Exploring International Human Rights: Essential Readings (2007).

Dr. Matthews and Dr. Callaway are the coauthors of Strategic U.S. Foreign Assistance: The Battle Between Human Rights and National Security (2008).