International Relations Then and Now

"This book stands out because of its exceptional historical depth which perfectly shows how international relations are first a human adventure in which political actors, thinkers and societies participate while fluctuating between war, peace, power and social crisis. It is also an impressive and very pedagogic perspective on the literature, and particularly the English language IR theory. It is a tremendous narrative of our international past and present." – Bertrand Badie,Sciences-Po, France

"Combining an overview of the history of the international system with evolving theoretical discourses in the discipline, Groom and Olson, with their new co-author, Barrinha, have produced what will likely be an invaluable teaching source for scholars in International Relations." – Vivienne Jabri,King's College London, UK

"Anybody looking to find an introductory text to either learn about or teach the discipline of International Relations could start with this text. The authors have done an admirable job of surveying and synthesising a vast number of texts on the subject from the seventeenth century on, with some going back to even earlier epochs. They show that the international concerns of governments and thinkers alike have always had common roots and intertwining expression. Such a book could only have been written by longstanding and experienced teachers of the subject, in this case A.J.R. Groom and William Olsen, here ably aided by a young scholar, André Barrinha. It is particularly recommended for early years undergraduates but could also be read by any interested members of the general public. It is written with clarity and style, both traits often lacking in academic IR texts." – Andrew Williams, University of St. Andrews, UK