Commonsense and the Theory of International Politics

This book deals with fundamental 'philosophical' problems which every student of international politics needs to reflect upon at some stage of his studies. It offers an exceptionally clear analysis of the nature of international theory and the problems associated with its development. John Garnett makes a distinctive contribution to the literature of the subject of international politics by insisting that 'explanation' is the only proper function for the international politics theorist, and by emphasizing the significance of language and conceptual analysis as an approach to the study of the subject. The 'scientific nature of international theory is also discussed in relation to its relevance to the practice of foreign policy, the nature of moral dilemmas confronting statesmen, and the limits of what can properly be said within the discipline of international politics.

Although examples are drawn from the field of international politics, much of the analysis will be of interest to students of politics and other social sciences. This book is unique among books on international theory in its approach and the ground it covers.