Thinking about War and Peace

Rich in pedagogy and clearly structured throughout, this textbook combines theoretical analysis with both historical and contemporary examples to explain, compare, and evaluate the various causal theories and moral frameworks that have been most influential in discussions of war. The book: clearly distinguishes the major descriptive and normative theories of war explains their historical/philosophical roots illustrates the theories using historical examples shows how theories relate to controversial contemporary cases While there are several books related to the study of war and peace, none approach the topic from such a comprehensive viewpoint.

Introduction Part 1: Pluralism 1. The Clash of Civilizations 2. Ethical Relativism 3. Religion and War Part 2: Realism 4. Political Realism 5. Ethical Realism 6. Economics and War Part 3: Idealism 7. Political Liberalism/Idealism 8. Just War Theory 9. International Law and War Part 4: Cosmopolitanism 10. Biology, Psychology, and Economics 11. Virtues, Duties, and Consequences 12. Globalization and War Conclusion.