Strategy in the Contemporary World: An Introduction to Strategic Studies

Strategy in the Contemporary World focuses on the traditional and contemporary uses of organized force for political ends. It brings together major scholars in the field and deals with both the theory and practice of strategy. Highlighting the continuing relevance of both traditional and new thinking about strategy, the text helps to clarify the complex issues of war and peace at the beginning of the twenty-first century.
The editors' introduction emphasizes the central unifying theme of the book: the historical and continuing role of military power in support of political ends. Four broad sections cover: the evolution of strategic thought; the theory and practice of land, sea, and air power; a range of new and adapted theories about peace and security that were developed during the Cold War; and developments in strategic thinking and practice that have taken place since the end of the Cold War, including Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA), Information (Cyber) Warfare, and Space Warfare.
Strategy in the Contemporary World concludes with a return to some of the themes identified in the introduction and a discussion of the future direction of strategic studies. This carefully edited textbook offers an accessible and engaging introduction to strategic studies for all students of politics and international relations.

John Baylis is Professor of International Politics and Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Social Studies at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth. Eliot Cohen is Director of the Center for Strategic Education in the Paul Nitze School of Advanced International Studies, John Hopkins University, Washington D.C. Colin S. Gray is Professor of International Politics and Strategic Studies and Director of the Center for Strategic Studies, University of Reading. James Wirtz teaches at the Postgraduate Naval College at Monterey, California.