The Architects of International Relations: Building a Discipline, Designing the World, 1914-1940

This book provides a new and stimulating history of International Relations (IR) as an academic discipline, arguing that it was not invented by Anglo-American men after the First World War and was divided into theoretical camps. It follows a diverse group of men and women from across Europe and beyond who pioneered the field since 1914, building institutions and designing plans for a new world order. Their story raises broader questions about the status of IR beyond the inter-war period.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 03 March 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This captivating book delves into the rich history of International Relations (IR) as an academic discipline, challenging prevailing narratives. Contrary to popular belief, it reveals that IR did not emerge solely from the minds of Anglo-American men following the First World War. Instead, it evolved through the pioneering efforts of a diverse group of individuals from across Europe and beyond, who laid the foundation for the field since 1914. These visionaries, akin to architects, not only constructed institutions such as university departments, journals, and libraries but also crafted blueprints for a new global order. Through their interactions with the League of Nations and its intellectual cooperation bodies, they worked tirelessly to achieve their goals, drafting treaties, petitions, and political commentary. However, their aspirations were abruptly halted by the outbreak of the Second World War. Their remarkable story raises profound questions about the status of IR beyond the inter-war period, shedding light on the complex and evolving nature of this field.

Weight: 632g
Dimension: 158 x 236 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781316511619