Chapter Overview

This chapter provides an introduction to international politics. It gives a history of the international system since 1945 and examines the possibilities of a "New World Order" in the aftermath of the Cold War. The chapter then contrasts politics among states with politics within states, noting the major features of international politics such as the lack of a central authority, communication difficulties between states and the colder moral tone of global politics. The chapter then explores the sources of power in international politics and the various ways leaders of states and international organizations make collective choices. The nature of international power is then explored and "balance of power" and regime theory are offered as examples of how a "choice" perspective can be applied even to a situation where there is no central authority. The chapter ends with an examination of ethnic conflict in Rwanda as an example of a failure of the "New World Order" and an overview of the history, functions, and challenges faced by the United Nations.

2003 McGraw-Hill Higher Education
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