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One of the leading texts on the IR market, John Rourkes International Politics on the World Stage provides a balanced and comprehensive study of international relations that combines theory, history, and current trends and events. The modern international system, a background history of how it evolved in its present form, as well as transformations that are shaping the 21st century are presented in a straightforward, accessible discussion, without undermining the complexity of world political issues. The text lives up to its reputation of including the latest events and developments of the world stage. Rourke discusses political theory, including contemporary approaches such as constructivism and postmodernism, in the opening chapter. He brings theoretical concepts to life with illustrative examples taken from major current world events, so students see how theory plays out in the real world.The text covers major issues of the twenty-first century, such as the structure of the modern state in the international system, globalization and the political economy, global security, the rise of intergovernmental and nongovernmental organizations, human rights, and the environment. These topics linked through the chapters in the text give students a grasp of the underlying patterns in world politics, so that they can interpret events they see on the evening news or on the Internet. As in previous editions, the text shows students how politics affects our everyday lives and emphasizes the importance of being politically aware, making informed decisions, and taking responsible action.

Part I. Studying World Politics 1. Thinking and Caring about World Politics 2. The Evolution of World Politics 3. Levels of Analysis and Foreign Policy Part II: Political Orientations on the World Stage 4. Nationalism: The Traditional Orientation 5. Globalism: The Alternative Orientation Part III: Organizational Structures of the Actors 6. National States: The Traditional Structure 7. Intergovernmental Organization: Alternative Part IV: Approaches to Conduct on the World Stage 8. National Power and Statecraft: The Traditional 9. International Law and Justice: An Alternative 10. National Security: The Traditional Road 11. International Security: The Alternative Road Part VI: Pursuing Prosperity 12. National Economic Competition: The Traditional Road 13. International Economic Cooperation: The IMF Part VII: Pursuing Human Rights and Environmental Viability 14. Preserving and Enhancing Human Rights and Dignity 15. Preserving and Enhancing the Biosphere