This book discusses the challenge to realism which proponents of international political economy and critical theory have mounted in the last few years. At the same time, it emphasizes the part that realist themes now play in the argument for a "post-Marxist" critical sociology. The changing relationship between realism and Marxism is explored in a wide-ranging survey which includes recent developments in the theory of international relations and various Marxist and non-Marxist approaches to nationalism, imperialism, international inequality, the world-system and the relationship between class and the state. It is aimed at students of approaches to international relations, but will also be of interest to students of Marxism, politics and sociology.