Theories of International Regimes

The authors examine three different theoretical approaches to international regimes: realism, neoliberalism and cognitivism.

International regimes are 'codes of conduct' agreed upon by states to govern their relations in specific areas of international politics. This book describes and critically examines the three most important theories of international regimes: realist, neoliberal, and cognitivist.International regimes have been a major focus of research in international relations for over a decade. Three schools of thought have shaped the discussion: realism, which treats power relations as its key variable; neoliberalism, which bases its analysis on constellations of interests; and cognitivism, which emphasizes knowledge dynamics, communication, and identities. Each school articulates distinct views on the origins, robustness, and consequences of international regimes. This book examines each of these contributions to the debate, taking stock of, and seeking to advance, one of the most dynamic research agendas in contemporary international relations. While the differences between realist, neoliberal and cognitivist arguments about regimes are acknowledged and explored, the authors argue that there is substantial scope for progress toward an inter-paradigmatic synthesis.