The field of study examining how countries interact with each other in global political and economic affairs. Topics include international politics, foreign policy, conflict resolution, and global governance.
The study of international relations evolved significantly following World War II with the development of the UN and other new international structures, and increased concern about issues like terrorism, natural disasters, world hunger, and human rights. A master’s degree in this field of study often leads to a career in the field of diplomacy or in government.
Various theoretical approaches to the study of international relations have emerged. Positivism and realism, for example, emphasize the role of power and the importance of understanding domestic political economy to understand how states behave on the world stage. Constructivist theory, meanwhile, argues that ideas, norms, and identities influence the way people perceive and act on the world stage.
A policy of avoiding involvement in the affairs of other countries, usually through neutrality or an unwillingness to join mutual defence agreements. The classic example was the United Kingdom’s stance of “splendid isolation” during most of the 19th century. See also non-interference and isolationism.