International Relations Have Two Broad Perspectives
What is International Relations
Perspectives of International Relations
International Relations have two broad perspectives.
As an academic field and;
As relations among states.
International relations as a field of study
As an academic discipline it has been viewed from different perspectives;
The first school of thought contend that international relations is a sub field of political science;
The second contend that it is a separate discipline.
Fundamentally international relations and political science are fields that are concerned with states internal structure and exercise of power. Political science is concerned with state’s internal structures and organisation.
International relations do the same between states.
In spite of the different perspectives, international relations is an integral part of political science. However, it has its own techniques, methodology, concepts and mode of analysis.
International relations as relations among states
In defining international relations we have the;
Conventional traditional definition of the subject is state centric.
State centric definition view relations among state in terms of diplomatic, military and strategic relations. Relation between states is one of anarchy. The relevant unit is the state. The conventional definition limits relations among states to international politics.
The alternative definitions focus on cross border transactions and the ways in which states and non states actors relate which each other. Relations between states are one of co-operation.
Working definition, international relations can be defined as the study of the sum total participate in the international system including states, international organization, non-governmental organization, sun national entities like bureaucracies and local government
Relations can be cordial or conflictual
Short or long term
Symmetrical or asymmetrical
The changing phase of international relations as a field of study
According to Kenneth Thompson cited in Akinboye and Ottoh 2007, international relations has passed through four stages;
Stage 1: before the First World War. Emphasis was on diplomatic history.
Stage 2: emphasis was placed on the study of current affairs
Stage 3: this stage was marked by the study of international s through law and international organisation.
Stage 4: emphasis shifted to the forces and influence which shape and condition the behaviour of states.
Akinboye, S. and Ottoh, O. (2007) A Systematic Approach to International Relations. Nigeria: Concept Publication.
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