Using a consistent three-part framework within each chapter--moving from Ideas, to Arguments, and then Contexts & Application-- International Relations , Fourth Edition, shows students how to think critically about issues and current events in world politics. Each chapter first describes key concepts and developments in the field, then presents the main theoretical and analytical approaches, and finally applies the main theories and approaches within the individual, state, and global contexts. The text builds on this effective framework with a variety of features that support students' understanding of key concepts. Historical information is woven throughout the text through "History Lab" features, and every chapter ends with an extended "Case Study" that demonstrates how what we have learned from the past can influence our future actions. "Visual Reviews" at the end of each chapter not only recap key points but include "Critical Thinking" questions that reflect the chapter's learning objectives. A unique Conclusion, "Forecasting the World of 2030," serves as a capstone exercise and includes discussion and writing prompts to help students synthesize what they've learned. "The overall structure of International Relations is original, based on ideas, arguments, context, and applications. The text is carefully written and very solid in terms of scholarship; its greatest strength is the bridging between theory and policy."--Robert Weiner, University of Massachusetts, Amherst " International Relations has a logical progression, starting with sovereignty, definition of theory, and then concepts, before moving to international security, law, IPE, and current challenges. This makes it relatively easy for students to grasp essential concepts and engage in critical thinking."--Thomas Lefebvre, Trinity College "I like that the authors apply levels of analysis across the chapters--this introduces students early on to the idea that IR is complicated and multifaceted--providing them with a consistent framework as they begin their study of IR."--Theresa Schroeder, Radford University "The writing and analyses are easy for students to follow and understand. At the same time, the authors cover the major theoretical and history material at the core of international relations."--Edward Kannyo, Rochester Institute of Technology Uses a consistent analytical framework to teach students how to think critically about issues in world politics, helping them better understand the political world they live in Eric Shiraev is Professor and Head of CARP (Character Assassination and Reputation Politics Research Lab) at George Mason University. Vladislav Zubok is Professor of History at the London School of Economics.