The Logic of Internationalism

The notion of internationalism suggests that institution-building and peaceful co-operation will cause peace and security to prevail in a system of independent states. This work examines this controversial topic and asks whether such a view is realistic, or if international relations are typically characterized by tension and war. Goldmann seeks to examine the plausibility of internationalism under present-day conditions. A theory of internationalism is outlined and is shown to have two dimensions: one coercive, to enforce the rules and decisions of international institutions; and one accommodative, to avoid confrontation by means of mutual understanding and compromise. Problematic features of the theory are then considered in detail, such as: the assumption that all international co-operation tends to inhibit war; and the tension inherent in the joint pursuit of coercion and accommodation.

Author Biography

Kjell Goldmann is Professor of Political Science and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Stockholm University. He has published extensively on the theory of international politics and foreign policy. The New International Relations Edited by Barry Buzan, University of Warwick and Gerald Segal, International Institute for Strategic Studies.