Realism and Global Governance

This volume provides a clear, comprehensive introduction to realism for use in making sense of global governance.

While realism is arguably the best known mainstream perspective in international relations theory, the literature on international organization (IO) and global governance (GG) conveys the impression that realism has little to contribute to the topic. In fact, however realism offers a nuanced, comprehensive and compelling perspective on IO and GG. This volume provides a clear and concise introduction to this realist understanding of contemporary order, organization, and management in world affairs.

The book:

• Introduces students to the core tenets of realism, and particularly its focus on nation-states as central for understanding the dynamics of IO and GG. 
• Explores the key current debates, including the role that competition and balance of power plays in encouraging cooperation and institution-building.
• Consid