INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

The discipline of international relations is broad with a plethora of courses but theories of international relations and international law or law of nations are core courses. The juxtaposition of theories and law in this book is a major milestone in the convergence of core courses which would enhance the comprehensive understanding of international relations. International relations is sometimes equated with international politics. Despite alternative usages, there is a major difference between international relations and international politics in practical terms. The book highlights the similarities and disparities and espouses core issues in international politics. Main stream theories of international relations hold the view that sovereign states are the main actors or international legal entity. International law evolved over the years dating back to antiquity but international law with universal applicability is a 20th century development. Present day international law is regulated by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The International Law Commission (ILC), established in 1947 paved the way for the concrete codification of international law.