Diplomatic Theory of International Relations (Cambridge Studies in International Relations, Series Number 111) - Hardcover

Sharp, Paul

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521760267 ISBN 13: 9780521760263

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2009

Synopsis

Diplomacy does not take place simply between states but wherever people live in different groups. Paul Sharp argues that the demand for diplomacy, and the need for the insights of diplomatic theory, are on the rise. In contrast to conventional texts which use international relations theories to make sense of what diplomacy and diplomats do, this book explores what diplomacy and diplomats can contribute to the big theoretical and practical debates in international relations today. Sharp identifies a diplomatic tradition of international thought premised on the way people live in groups, the differences between intra- and inter-group relations, and the perspectives which those who handle inter-group relations develop about the sorts of international disputes which occur. He argues that the lessons of diplomacy are that we should be reluctant to judge, ready to appease, and alert to the partial grounds on which most universal claims about human beings are made.

About this title

Book Description:

In this book, Paul Sharp argues that we can identify a distinct diplomatic tradition of international thought derived from the unique position diplomats occupy between the groups in which we live. This tradition sheds new insights on big questions about international systems and societies and suggests innovative ways of handling contemporary international issues.

About the Author:

Paul Sharp is Professor and Head of Political Science at the University of Minnesota, Duluth.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2009
• ISBN 10: 0521760267
• ISBN 13: 9780521760263
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 352