Force and Statecraft: Diplomatic Problems of Our Time

In this classic text, an eminent historian of international affairs and a distinguished political scientist survey the evolution of the international system, from the emergence of the modern state in the 17th century to the present. Craig and George pay particular attention to the nineteenth century's "balance-of-power" system, the basic tenets of which still determine many applications of modern diplomacy. The authors also focus on the ways in which the 20th century diplomatic revolution--a complex of military, political, economic and ideological factors--has destroyed the homogeneity of the international community and confronted diplomats with new problems and the need to find new expedients to deal with them.

The revised third edition brings these arguments up to date with expanded chapters, newly-added discussions and case studies, and entirely new material reflecting the altered political landscape of the 1990's, with chapters on the Gulf War, the collaps of communism in Eastern Europe, the reunification of Germany, and the break-up of the Soviet Union. Force and Statecraft remains the standard resource for students in the fields of international relations and diplomatic history.

Gordon A. Craig and Alexander L. George are both at Stanford University.