In this text for undergraduates, Mingst (University of Kentucky) reviews the history of international relations, then presents competing theories and levels of analyses to provide interpretive frameworks for understanding what is happening in the world. Major issues of the 21st century, including security, economics, and globalization, are analyzed. The pedagogical program of previous editions, with its theory, focus, and controversy boxes, has been preserved in this fourth edition, with new boxes added on global perspectives. Along with substantial updating throughout, this edition presents constructivist perspectives more consistently, introduces additional material on the European Union and NGOs, and offers expanded information on security. A reorganized chapter on international political economy pays special attention to the issue of resources. Full-color and two-color maps are presented in a two-color design. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) Read Less