Religion and the Realist Tradition: From Political Theology to International Relations Theory and Back

This book explores the influence of religion on Realism and the power of Realism to address religious issues in world politics. It suggests that Realism offers serious ground for taking religion and faith into account and evaluating the impact of religion on its theoretical framework. The chapters address the lack of theoretical underpinning in the field of religion in international relations and offer a theoretical view on religion in international relations in the context of Realism. They also connect this with actual, real-world related political problems.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 31 July 2018
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume delves into a previously under-explored realm of international relations theory: the profound impact of religion on Realism, as well as the remarkable capacity of Realism to address religious issues in the realm of global politics. While classical Realism scholars may not explicitly foreground religion in their renowned works, this volume argues that Realism provides a solid foundation for considering religion and faith, as well as evaluating the influence of religion on its theoretical framework. It explores how religion and religious worldviews shape and influence the theoretical underpinnings of Realism, as well as how Realism approaches religious issues in international relations, a relatively new field of study within the realm of international relations.

Despite the growing importance of religion in international relations scholarship, significant gaps remain in the theoretical framework. This volume aims to address this deficiency by showcasing the potential for reform and transformation within Realism. Furthermore, the chapters extend to normative statements, offering a theoretical perspective on religion in international relations within the context of Realism while always linking it to real-world political problems. The volume encompasses not only classical thinkers and approaches to Realism but also contemporary authors who engage with ethical and normative questions of international relations in the aftermath of 9/11.

This groundbreaking work will appeal to scholars of religion, international relations, international relations theory, and political philosophy, providing a fresh and insightful perspective on the complex interplay between religion and international relations.

Weight: 328g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138490178