Of undoubtable relevance today in a post-9-11 world of growing political tension & unease this Very Short Introduction covers the topics essential to an understanding of modern international relations Paul Wilkinson explains the theories & the practice that underlie the subject & investigates issues ranging from foreign policy arms control & terrorism to the environment & world poverty He examines the role of organizations such as the United Nations & the European Union as well as the influence of ethnic & religious movements & terrorist groups which also play a role in shaping the way states & governments interact This up-to-date book is required reading for those seeking a new perspective to help untangle & decipher international events ABOUT THE SERIES The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly Our expert authors combine facts analysis perspective new ideas & enthusiasm to make interesting & challenging topics highly readable