Perspectives on International Relations

Henry R. Nau's concise and accessible text offers a framework that enables students to recognize and evaluate the different perspectives through which we try to make sense of international politics. Nau shows how each of the three most powerful perspectives on international relations today - realist, liberal, and identity, including constructivist - interprets the most important problems facing the world, showing in a balanced and even-handed way what each has to offer, and where its vulnerabilities lie. Nau provides comprehensive coverage of security, economic, and global concerns, using an engrossing narrative style that both students and instructors will appreciate. The text uses an attractive two-colour design, compelling photos, and includes tables, figures, maps, and charts. In addition, the text features numerous well-integrated, pedagogically-rich tools to help enhance students' understanding of the perspectives and show them how each can be applied:
Aimed at an undergraduate audience, this introductory textbook on international relations by Nau (George Washington U.) differs from others by downplaying "high theory" and preferring to explore issues and institutions from alternative "perspectives": the essential ideas that make up the realist, liberal, and constructivist approaches. Nau develops