Smaller nations have a special place in the international system, with a striking capacity to defy the expectations of most observers and many prominent theories of international relations. This volume of classic essays highlights the ability of small states to counter power with superior commitment, to rely on tightly knit domestic institutions with a shared ideology of social partnership, and to set agendas as entrepreneurs. The volume is organised around themes such as how and why small states defy expectations of realist approaches to the study of power; the agenda-setting capacity of smaller powers in international society and in regional governance structures such as the European Union; and how small states and representatives from these societies play the role of entrepreneurs in world politics - from the promotion of sustainable solutions to innovative humanitarian programmes and policies.

This volume seeks to address an imbalance in the international relations literature by focusing attention on the role of small states.

About the Author

Christine Ingebritsen is associate professor of Scandinavian studies and associate dean of undergraduate education, University of Washington, Seattle. Iver B. Neumann is director of research at the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs, Oslo, Norway. Sieglinde Gstohl is professor of European politics and administration at the College of Europe, Bruges, Belgium. Jessica Beyer is a doctoral candidate at the University of Washington. The other contributors include Annette Baker Fox, Jorri Duursma, Michael Handel, Peter J. Katzenstein, Dan Reiter, Baldur Thorhallsson, and David Vital.

Book Information
ISBN 9780295985244
Author Christine Ingebritsen
Format Paperback
Page Count 334
Imprint University of Washington Press
Publisher University of Washington Press