An Introduction to World Politics

Conflict and Consensus on a Small Planet

By (author) Richard Oliver Collin, Pamela L. Martin

Publication date:

02 August 2012

Length of book:

658 pages

Publisher

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

ISBN-13: 9781442218031

In today’s world, students need to know that there is more to politics than just politics. This clearly written text introduces students to world politics as a combination of comparative politics and international relations in an increasingly interconnected globe and explores topics that are sometimes left out of the equation: health care; the status of children; changing roles of women in the developing world; and the interplay among population growth, resources, the environment, and sustainable development. Designed specifically for introductory-level students, the book balances theory with authentic insights and examples that provide a compelling window into the struggles of citizens worldwide.

Introduction
Part I: Introduction to a Small Planet
1. Global Literacy: Understanding a Complicated World
2. Levels of Analysis: The People, Places, and Things We Study
3. Community and Conflict: A Quick Look at the Planet
4. The Country in Question: Sovereign States and Nations
Part II: How the World Functions: Freedom and Political Conflict
5. Containing Conflict: The International Community
6. Freedom and Ideology: Imagining an Ideal World
7. How Democracies Manage Freedom and Conflict
Part III: Kinds of Conflict: The World When Things Go Wrong
8. Conflict and Less-Free Societies
9. Conflict, Violence, War, and Mayhem
10. The War of the Mind: Violent Ideological Conflict
11. The War of the Heart: Violent Nationalist Conflict
Part IV: Population, Poverty, Resources, and Human Development
12. Economic Development: The Rich and the Wretched
13. Too Many Plates at the Table: Population and Political Conflict
14. The Greening of a Blue Planet
Appendices
Glossary

A spectacular 360-degree view, this book presents a complete and organic discussion of the most salient issues, actors, principles, concepts, and debates in world politics today. By offering a vast array of relevant examples, current data, and precise accounts and discussions of what it all means, Collin and Martin provide the reader with the perfect tools to unravel and enjoy the complexities of world politics. This excellent textbook is a 'must have' for any student interested in international affairs.