Overview of Theory in IR Textbooks “Theory in International Relations Textbooks”

Diehl provides an overview of the frequency in which different international relations (IR) theories are covered in textbooks used in international relations courses. One set is a sample of 10 textbooks designed for introductory courses in curricula and departments of International Relations, Global Politics, and International Studies; these are courses at the undergraduate level. A second set is a sample of 6 textbooks designed for upper-division undergraduate or entry-level graduate courses that deal primarily or exclusively with IR theory. Multiple IR theories are examined, including Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, Feminist Theory, Critical Theory, Post-Modernism, Marxism/Economic, English School/Idealism, Foreign Policy Analysis, Post-Marxism, Post-structuralism, Post-colonialism, Neo-conservatism, Rational Choice Theory, Green Theory, Copenhagen School, Peace Studies, Normative, Global IR, Globalization, and LGBTQ. Patterns are identified and discussed.