International Relations Theory
The Game-Theoretic Approach

A new introduction to the game theoretic approach to international relations theory for advanced undergraduate and graduate students.

Andrew H. Kydd (Author)

9781107027350, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 29 January 2015

244 pages, 49 b/w illus. 51 tables
25.4 x 17.8 x 1.6 cm, 0.64 kg

'To understand international politics, one needs to know what states believe and want and to what positions they commit themselves in the endless bargain with other nations. This important textbook introduces concisely, and with great elegance, the elementary algebra of global decision making. International Relations Theory is a great achievement and tremendous service to a discipline that still struggles to grasp the often tragic nature of world affairs.' Gerald Schneider, International Relations Chair, University of Konstanz, and President of the European Political Science Association (2013–2015)

Written for advanced undergraduate and graduate students, this is the first textbook on international relations theory to take a specifically game-theoretic approach to the subject, and provide the material needed for students to understand the subject thoroughly, from its basic foundations to more complex models. International relations theory is presented and analysed using simple games, which allow students to grasp the concepts and mechanisms involved with the rationalist approach without the distraction of complicated mathematics. Chapter exercises reinforce key concepts and guide students to extend the models discussed. Drawing examples from international security, international political economy, and environmental negotiations, this introductory textbook examines a broad array of topics in international relations courses, including state preferences, normal form games, bargaining, uncertainty and communication, multilateral cooperation, and the impact of domestic politics.

1. Introduction
2. What states want
3. Varieties of strategic settings
4. Bargaining
5. Power change and war
6. Private information and war
7. Arms competition and war
8. Cooperation theory
9. Diplomacy and signaling
10. Multilateral cooperation
11. Domestic politics and international relations.

Subject Areas: International relations [JPS], Politics & government [JP]