Religion and International Relations Theory

This book will become essential reading for anyone studying the importance of religion in international relations. Indeed, it will be relevant for anyone who wishes to understand key dynamics in international affairs more broadly. -- Hendrik Spruyt, Northwestern University A remarkable collection that brings religion, in all its multiple forms, into international relations theory. These erudite chapters show the origins of secular theories in religious values and institutions, the ways in which religion can be incorporated into established theories, the other ways in which religion continues to rival secular world views, and the variety of consequences that we should expect from a world in which religion appears to be becoming increasingly salient. An essential addition to the library of international theory. -- Michael W. Doyle, author of Ways of War and Peace Though religion has returned to the global public square with a vengeance, until now international relations theory seemed oblivious. This book changes that. Its timely and thoughtful essays bring religion back into the picture, exploring major aspects of international relations theory and providing new ways of thinking about religion within major theoretical frames of reference. Written with clarity and grace by leading thinkers in the field, this landmark book will be read by scholars and students of international relations theory for years to come. -- Mark Juergensmeyer, author of Global Rebellion: Religious Challenges to the Secular State impressive -- G. John Ikenberry Foreign Affairs ... the book is easy to read and is a great source for scholars who are interested in the roots of secularism and the resurgence of religion. The contributors also elegantly tie their research to international relations theory in their respective conclusions. -- Nukhet A. Sandal Perspectives on Politics