num_pages: 452
description: Drawing on philosophy and social theory, Social Theory of International Politics develops a cultural theory of international politics that contrasts with the realist mainstream. Wendt argues that states can view each other as enemies, rivals, or friends. He characterizes these roles as "cultures of anarchy," which are shared ideas that help shape states' interests and capabilities. These cultures can change over time as ideas change. Wendt thus argues that the nature of international politics is not fixed, and that the international system is not condemned to conflict and war.
language: English
title: Social Theory of International Politics
titlecomplete: Social Theory of International Politics (Cambridge Studies in International Relations, Series Number 67)
genres: Social Science, Philosophy, Sociology, International Relations, Grad School, Academic, Nonfiction, Theory, Political Science, Politics
ratings_count: 479
publisher: Cambridge University Press