Turmoil and Order in Regional International Politics

This edited book explores the use of monadic, dyadic, and systemic approaches to compare regional international politics and argues that a great deal of international politics takes place within regional parameters. It suggests that regions, all with proper names, have attributes that can be harnessed through comparison to explain why regional behavior differs greatly across the planet. The aim is to replace the proper names with the leading variables that appear to drive behavior. Comparative regional analysis can deliver an explanatory value-added product, but it requires analysts who are willing to explore generalization but acknowledge regional contexts more explicitly than is customary. More general substitutes for regional labels must be introduced if explanatory headway is to be achieved.

Format: Hardback
Length: 290 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This edited book serves as a valuable complement and extension to the work of Thompson and Volgy et al., Regions, Power, and Conflict: Constrained Capabilities, Hierarchy, and Rivalry. It is primarily driven by the scarcity of published material that compares regional international politics. Monadic, dyadic, and systemic approaches have been widely employed, but comparative regional analysis remains relatively underdeveloped. The central premise is that a significant portion of international politics unfolds within regional boundaries. While many states lack the capacity or inclination to invest substantial resources in extra-regional affairs, each region possesses its unique characteristics. Some regions continue to experience military coups as a prevalent political practice, while others have witnessed the decline of such coups. Certain regions have experienced prolonged conflicts, while others have transitioned towards greater pacification. Some regions are neighbored by powerful states with interventionist tendencies, while others are surrounded by relatively weaker states. Some regions are economically prosperous, while others face economic challenges.

The key takeaway is that regions, each with its proper name, possess attributes that can be analyzed and compared to understand the diverse behaviors observed across the globe. The objective is to replace the specific regional labels with the primary variables that appear to influence behavior. For example, resorting to a generalization such as "that's the Middle East for you" offers limited insight. By replacing the Middle East label with a conceptualization of how a set of small, weak, autocratic states behave under the influence of major powers, we can gain a deeper understanding of regional dynamics.

There are compelling reasons to believe that comparative regional analysis can provide an explanatory value-added product, comparable to alternative "levels of analysis." By studying regions in comparison, scholars can uncover patterns, trends, and factors that contribute to regional behavior and outcomes. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of international relations and enables scholars to develop insights that may not be possible through a single-level analysis.

In conclusion, this edited book offers a valuable contribution to the field of regional international politics. By exploring the unique characteristics of regions and comparing them, scholars can gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shape global affairs. Comparative regional analysis provides a valuable tool for scholars and policymakers seeking to comprehend and address the challenges and opportunities that arise in diverse geopolitical contexts.

Weight: 617g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789819905560
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023