The text is the leader in the field for its accessible, jargon-free style combined with a nuanced discussion of the complexity of world politics that makes it easy for students to relate to politics in the 21st century.
The structure of the text is organized around the realist and liberal approaches to international relations, introduced in the opening chapter.
A concise historical background traces the evolution of the current international system.
Thematic boxes are built around the subject matter of each chapter: “Write the Policy Script” boxes challenge students to debate controversial topics, and “Play a Part in Your World” boxes offer suggestions on how students can participate politically.
"You Be the Playwright" boxes ask students to reimagine events and documents (for example, a "You Be the Playwright" box in Chapter 2 lays out the basics of the Bush Doctrine, briefly outlines reactions for and against the document, and asks the students whether they would include it as a basis of the unfolding action on the world stage or whether they would rather rewrite the script).
The text is known for its abundance of excellent maps, graphs and charts. Thematic maps show strategic geopolitical features, such as Flows of Oil and the Gender Gap.
Each chapter includes photos of contemporary political scenes from around the world, familiarizing students with distant places.
Tools for student review include a chapter outline in the opener pages and an end-of-chapter summary. Key Terms are identified in the chapter and defined in a glossary.
Web icons throughout the text point readers to additional interactive materials available on the companion Online Learning Center, including debates, polls, simulations, and quizzes. Examples include a site that allows students to play political strategy games (zero-sum, free rider, and prisoner's dilemma) and a site that helps put the world population in perspective.
To obtain an instructor login for this Online Learning Center, ask your local sales representative.
If you're an instructor thinking about adopting this textbook, request a free copy for review.
2008 McGraw-Hill Higher Education