War and Change in World Politics

Author: (USA) Gilpin, R. (Author), translated by Song Xinning, Du Jianping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: The stability and transformation of international politics is the core issue explored by Professor Robert Gilpin in this book. To address this, he attempts to construct a new conceptual framework to examine the relationship between the stability of the international system and the uneven growth of power among various actors. Additionally, he employs theories from history, sociology, and economics to analyze the dynamics and origins of changes in the world order. Over the more than two decades since the book's initial publication, Gilpin's perspectives have faced dual challenges from rapid shifts in the international landscape and theoretical developments. However, his contributions to the study of international politics far exceed mere predictions about the decline of American hegemony. His role is described as "not providing precise scientific explanations for political change, but rather serving as an analytical tool to organize and interpret human experience." Consequently, this book stands as one of the most influential works in the field of international political economy.