Social Theory of International Politics

Develops a cultural theory of international politics which contrasts with the realist mainstream.

Alexander Wendt (Author)

9780521469609, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 7 October 1999

447 pages, 4 b/w illus.
22.7 x 15.2 x 2.9 cm, 0.71 kg

'This is the most academic of these books … it has caused a stir in its field and may be the most important … Many previous theorists have ignored social factors and rejected the idea of international society, preferring to see the world as an 'anarchy' of states operating without moral or social restraint. But even anarchy, argues Mr Wendt, is a social construct - and anything which is the product of our ideas can be changed, if we want to change it strongly enough.' Economist

Drawing upon philosophy and social theory, Social Theory of International Politics develops a theory of the international system as a social construction. Alexander Wendt clarifies the central claims of the constructivist approach, presenting a structural and idealist worldview which contrasts with the individualism and materialism which underpins much mainstream international relations theory. He builds a cultural theory of international politics, which takes whether states view each other as enemies, rivals or friends as a fundamental determinant. Wendt characterises these roles as 'cultures of anarchy', described as Hobbesian, Lockean and Kantian respectively. These cultures are shared ideas which help shape state interests and capabilities, and generate tendencies in the international system. The book describes four factors which can drive structural change from one culture to another - interdependence, common fate, homogenization, and self-restraint - and examines the effects of capitalism and democracy in the emergence of a Kantian culture in the West.

Acknowledgements
1. Four sociologies of international politics
Part I. Social Theory: 2. Scientific realism and social kinds
3. 'Ideas all the way down?': on the constitution of power and interest
4. Structure, agency and culture
Part II. International Politics: 5. The state and the problem of corporate agency
6. Three cultures of anarchy
7. Process and structural change
8. Conclusion
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: International relations [JPS]