Beyond Westphalia: An Interpretation of International Relations in the 21st Century

Author: Chen Yugang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-11-01
Features: This book primarily discusses the transformation of international relations. The fundamental principles of modern international relations were established by the Treaty of Westphalia, and thus the modern international relations system is also referred to as the Westphalian system. However, as international interdependence deepens and globalization progresses, with global issues becoming increasingly prominent, some of the basic principles of this system are facing greater challenges. How should we recognize and address these challenges? Is contemporary international relations undergoing a fundamental transformation? What direction will future international relations take? And so on—such questions increasingly perplex researchers, observers, and practitioners of international relations. This book raises the question of going beyond the Westphalian system and attempts to dissect and explore this issue from three levels: 1) concepts, theories, and paradigms; 2) the realities of international relations; and 3) foreign policies and actions of states.