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International relations is complex. The purpose of this book is to "trace for the reader" how "international relations" evolved as a field of systematic study. It will also help me understand "themes" the field (int'l relations) has produced.

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Early Approaches
Started in ancient times in India, China and Greece. Included some writings by Plato and Aristotle, but especially Thucydides' "History of the Peloponnesian War." Later, Machiavelli's "The Prince" and Dante's "De Monarchia." Other authors were mentioned through the early 18th century.

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No "systematic development" of "internal political theories of state" occurred in international theory before WWI. Definition of "international theory" according to Martin Wight: "tradition of speculation about relations between states..." Such speculation used to fall under the term "international law." During this early period, there were just "common sense axioms" (except for the balance of power theory).

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The "golden age of diplomacy" was 1648-1914. Political thought focused on the sovereign nation-state. Still no "coherent international theory." Until 1914, it was felt that structure of international society was not able to be altered -- was "natural and necessary." Study of international relations was the study of "diplomatic history and international law," nothing more.

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Modern Approaches
Serious study began when U.S. became a world power (some hindrance in 1920s & 1930s due to "isolationism"). Two positions were (1) intellectual idealism (eg., Woodrow Wilson) and (2) politicians who blocked the U.S. from joining the "world organization." Example of this dichotomy is in the Kellogg-Briand Treaty of 1928 -- outlawed "war by moralistic intent" but didn't have a way to enforce this.

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For 10 years after Versailles (which was _____ [enter date]), there were 2 approaches to teaching world affairs: (1) courses in current events and (2) courses in international law and organization. Goal of current events courses: "promote international understanding. Goal of international law courses: show the discrepancies between obligations of states and their actual conduct. Era was one of a struggle between the status quo and those wanting to overturn it.

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etc.